Literary Allusions and Irony

Questions and Answers

What is an allusion?

A type of literary genre

A detailed description of a person

A direct quote from a source

A brief and indirect reference to something of significance (correct)

What does the term 'quixotic' refer to?

Stupid and impractical

Which of the following is an example of an allusion in everyday speech?

How are you doing today?

This is a cold day.

Where are my keys?

Don't act like a Romeo in front of her. (correct)

In Milton's 'Paradise Lost', whom does 'dread less Angel' refer to?

Abdiel Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Olympus' top' allude to?

Greek Mythology Signup and view all the answers

In Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness', who do the two knitting women allude to?

Moirae Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'Garden of Eden' refer to in allusions?

A paradise Signup and view all the answers

What is a common meaning of 'Newton' in everyday speech?

Genius student Signup and view all the answers

In Keats's 'Ode to the Grecian Urn', what does 'Tempe' allude to?

A valley in Greece Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Allusion

Allusion is a brief, indirect reference to significant cultural, historical, literary, or political figures or events.
It does not provide detailed descriptions and expects the reader's prior knowledge to understand its importance.

Literary Allusion

An example of literary allusion is describing an idea as "quixotic," referencing Cervantes's "Don Quixote," which narrates the misadventures of a foolish knight.

Everyday Speech Examples

Common allusions occur frequently in daily conversation:
- "Don't act like a Romeo," referencing Shakespeare's romantic character.
- "Unlock the Pandora's box of crimes," alluding to the Greek myth about Pandora.
- "This place is like a Garden of Eden," referencing the biblical paradise.
- "The new Newton of our school" refers to Isaac Newton as a symbol of genius.
- "Stop acting like my ex-husband" utilizes reference to a familiar figure rather than a literary one.

Allusion in Literature

Milton's "Paradise Lost":
- Contains significant allusions:
  - "Dread less Angel" refers to the fearless angel Abdiel.
  - "Circling Hours" alludes to the Horae from Greek mythology.
  - "Rosie hand" evokes Homer's description of dawn in the "Odyssey."
Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus":
- Contains various allusions:
  - "Jove's high firmament" refers to the vast universe.
  - "Olympus' top" alludes to Mount Olympus, home of Greek gods.
  - "Chariot burning bright" references Apollo, who is said to drive the sun.
Conrad's "Heart of Darkness":
- Features allusions to Greek mythology:
  - "Two knitting women" represent the Moirae or Fates, symbolizing the control over human destinies.
  - Their black wool knitting foreshadows tragedy and Marlow's difficult journey.
Keats's "Ode to the Grecian Urn":
- Includes allusions to Greek myths and locations:
  - "Sylvan historian" refers to a nature deity.
  - "Tempe" alludes to the Vale of Tempe in Greece, known for its beauty.

Summary of Allusion Types

Allusions enhance writing by connecting readers to familiar concepts and enriching narrative depth.
They can be found in literature, everyday speech, and serve various purposes from humor to foreshadowing or emphasizing themes.

Description

Test your knowledge of key literary concepts such as irony, point-of-view, and allusion. This quiz provides flashcards that help you understand and identify these important literary devices. Perfect for literature students and enthusiasts!