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Literary notes about beshrew (AI summary)

The word "beshrew" is employed as a colorful interjection in literary works, often conveying a mix of curse, regret, or incredulity. In many dramatic contexts, particularly within Shakespeare's oeuvre ([1], [2], [3], [4], [5]), characters use it to underscore their dismay or to censure an action with a touch of irony. Its usage is not confined to tragedy alone; authors like Ben Jonson and Howard Pyle also deploy the term to add a humorous, colloquial flourish that lightens the gravity of the moment ([6], [7]). Additionally, the phrase can serve to intensify emotional expression—whether lamenting personal misfortune or condemning the folly of others, as when a speaker exclaims it in the heat of passion or in mock admonishment ([8], [9]).
  1. Beshrew me, if I would do such a wrong For the whole world.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  2. I cannot tell what you have done, I have; Beshrew mine eyes for't: now I feele my Shackles.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  3. Beshrew me, but I love her heartily; For she is wise, if I can judge of her,
    — from The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare
  4. Beshrew me, but I love her heartily, For she is wise, if I can judge of her,
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  5. Beshrew your heart, Fair daughter, you do draw my spirits from me With new lamenting ancient oversights.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  6. Whereupon my armed guards— beshrew them for cowards!—straight ran away.
    — from The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood by Howard Pyle
  7. Wel, Beshrew me, but it was an absolute good jest, and exceedingly well carried!
    — from Every Man in His Humor by Ben Jonson
  8. Beshrew me, if I would not run my rapier through his body if I could!'
    — from The Catholic World, Vol. 01, April to September, 1865 A Monthly Eclectic Magazine by Various
  9. Beshrew the winners, for they play'd me false!
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare

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