* Skillful and elaborate: This meaning aligns with the modern use of "artificial" to describe something carefully crafted or designed. For example, "artificial" could describe a complex tapestry, a skillfully crafted poem, or a finely-wrought piece of jewelry.
* False or deceptive: This meaning is closer to the modern use of "artificial" as a negative term for something fake or inauthentic. For example, an "artificial" smile could indicate a person is hiding their true feelings, and an "artificial" gemstone could be made to resemble a real one but lack its natural beauty and value.
* Skillful and learned: This meaning reflects the Elizabethan admiration for knowledge and skill. An "artificial" person was one who had been trained in specific arts and crafts, including music, writing, and even warfare.
In Elizabethan literature, "artificial" is often used in a neutral or even positive way, emphasizing the skill and creativity of human ingenuity. However, it could also carry a negative connotation, especially when describing something that was meant to deceive or disguise.
Here are some examples of "artificial" in Elizabethan literature:
* "Artificial tears" could refer to a theatrical display of grief, not necessarily genuine sorrow.
* "Artificial beauty" could describe elaborate makeup or hairstyles that were meant to enhance natural features.
* "Artificial speech" could refer to eloquent and well-crafted language, but also to overly elaborate or flowery language that could be perceived as insincere.
Overall, the Elizabethan meaning of "artificial" was more nuanced than its modern counterpart, encompassing both the skill and creativity of human effort and the potential for deception and artifice.