Understanding Deviltry: A Look into the Archaic Term for Evil

Deviltry is an archaic or poetic term for "devilishness" or "evil". It can refer to the actions, behavior, or influence of the devil or Satan. In a broader sense, it can also refer to anything that is wicked, sinful, or malevolent.

The word "deviltry" is derived from the Old English word "deofol" or "devil", and the suffix "-try", which indicates a state or quality. It was commonly used in Middle English literature and poetry to describe the evil deeds or nature of the devil.

Here are some examples of how "deviltry" might be used in different contexts:

* "The devil's temptations were full of devilry, and he resisted them with all his might."
* "The devil's minions were filled with devilry, and they brought great woe to the land."
* "The devil's snares were crafted with devilry, and many fell into his trap."

In modern English, we might use words like "devilish" or "evil" instead of "deviltry", but in more formal or poetic contexts, "deviltry" can add a touch of archaic flair and emphasize the malevolent nature of the subject.