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Definition of Allusion. An allusion is a reference, typically brief, to a person, place, thing, event, or other literary work with which the reader is presumably familiar. As a literary device, allusion allows a writer to compress a great deal of meaning and significance into a word or phrase. However, allusions are only effective to the extent ...
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In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas, and they do so in order to layer associations and meanings from these sources onto their own work.
- Definition of Allusion. An allusion is a literary device used to reference another object outside of the work of literature. The object can be a real or fictional person, event, quote, or other work of artistic expression.
- Examples of Allusion in Common Speech. Big Brother: Now a reality television show in countries across the world, the term Big Brother comes from George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984 (he, in turn, may have taken the phrase from a WWII-era billboard).
- Significance of Allusion. Authors use allusions intentionally, though it is the reader’s responsibility to understand the reference. Allusions can create meaning in a work that is lost if the reader doesn’t grasp the reference.
- Examples of Allusion in Literature. Example #1. Then turning, I to them my speech address’d, And thus began: “Francesca! your sad fate. Even to tears my grief and pity moves.
Examples of Allusion in Literature. Example 1. In the graphic novel Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi depicts a fallen soldier being cradled by his mother, a woman in a veil. The image alludes strongly to images of Jesus being taken down from the cross by Mary (external allusion).
Allusions (ale-LOO-shuhn) are textual references to an object or subject that exists outside the text. They use readers’ prior knowledge and associations to enhance emotion or clarify significance. Literary allusions are typically indirect or implied, meaning readers must make the connection themselves.
Let’s explore everything we need to know, including some helpful allusion examples in literature. What is an allusion? An allusion is literary device in which a writer makes a subtle, indirect reference to a moment, idea, or part of culture that the reader will recognize.
Dec 8, 2021 · An allusion is a common literary device that calls something to mind without explicitly referencing it. You have likely heard allusions in a book, film or everyday life, or even written some allusion examples yourself without realizing it.
