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Literary Devices
Definition of Allusion
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... read full definition
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... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Key Examples in A Farewell to Arms
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Saint Anthony:
In Chapter 8, Catherine gives Henry a chain with a Saint Anthony charm for protection on the front. This is, of course, a direct allusion to Saint Anthony, the patron of lost things:
I undid the clasp of the gold chain and put it around my neck and clasped it. The saint hung down on the outside of my uniform and I undid the throat of my tunic, unbuttoned the shirt collar and dropped him in under the shirt. I felt him in his metal box against my chest while we drove. Then I forgot about him. After I was wounded I never found him. Some one probably got it at one of the dressing stations.
Related Themes:
Chapter 25
Explanation and Analysis—Adam and Eve:
When Henry returns to Gorizia after his convalescence in Milan, he reunites with Rinaldi. Together, the two drink and discuss Rinaldi's relationships with an allusion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“I am the snake. I am the snake of reason.”
“You’re getting it mixed. The apple was reason.”
“No, it was the snake.” He was more cheerful.
“You are better when you don’t think so deeply,” I said.
Related Themes:
