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Literary notes about alias (AI summary)

In literature, "alias" frequently signals an alternative name or hidden identity that deepens a character’s intrigue or underscores a thematic element of transformation. It is used to conceal or reveal facets of a persona—whether to evoke mystery, as with characters adopting pseudonyms like Zwack’s hidden "Cato" ([1]), or to provide colorful sobriquets for notorious figures, such as pirate mariners with multiple monikers ([2], [3]). In classical and religious texts the term underscores layers of meaning and tradition, as when a biblical figure is reintroduced under an additional name ([4], [5]), while in more modern works "alias" may even refer to online handles ([6], [7]). This multifaceted use of the word enriches narratives by aligning a character’s external label with an inner or secret identity, adding complexity to literary characterization ([8], [9]).
  1. Thus Zwack (alias Cato) writes: "We have not only hindered the enlistings of the Rose-Croix but rendered their very name contemptible.
    — from Secret societies and subversive movements by Nesta Helen Webster
  2. William Eddy , alias Neddy , late of Aberdeen , Mariner.
    — from A General History of the Pyrates: by Daniel Defoe
  3. Stede Bonnet , alias Edwards , alias Thomas , late of Barbadoes , Mariner.
    — from A General History of the Pyrates: by Daniel Defoe
  4. Jesus... Alias, Josue, the son of Josedec, the high priest of that time. 3:2.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  5. .Alias, Josue, the son of Josedec, the high priest of that time.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  6. PARTI lets the user log on using an alias.
    — from The Online World by Odd De Presno
  7. Handle ——— An alias used on a bulletin board or online service instead of your real name.
    — from The Online World by Odd De Presno
  8. Collin exerted a strong influence over Jacques, alias Vautrin, toward his life of adventure without the pale of the law.
    — from Repertory of The Comedie Humaine, Complete, A — Z by Cerfberr and Christophe
  9. The Forest of Arden Enter ROSALIND for GANYMEDE, CELIA for ALIENA, and CLOWN alias TOUCHSTONE ROSALIND.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare

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