Curley

Curley, often misspelled as Curly, is a name, character archetype, and can refer to various other entities.

As a Given Name/Surname:

Curley is a surname of Irish origin, Anglicized from the Gaelic Ó Corraile. It is also sometimes used as a given name. The surname can be found primarily in Ireland, England, and the United States.

In Literature and Film:

The name is perhaps most recognizable as belonging to a character in John Steinbeck's novella, Of Mice and Men. Curley is the boss's son on the ranch and is depicted as a volatile, insecure, and pugnacious character. His short stature and aggressive behavior are central to his characterization and contribute to the tragic events of the story.

Character Archetype:

The name "Curley," and particularly the variant "Curly," is strongly associated with a specific character archetype: the short-tempered, often physically small, but aggressive individual. This archetype derives largely from the character in Of Mice and Men, and is often used to denote a character attempting to compensate for perceived inferiority.

Other Uses:

The name "Curley" may also refer to various businesses, geographical locations (e.g., street names), or other entities depending on context. Without specific context, it's difficult to provide a comprehensive list.