Previous
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 Room of One's Own
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Famous Writers:
Through the voice of her narrator, Woolf alludes to a plethora of famous writers and works of literature not only to directly comment on them, but also to display her credentials as an intellectual. In order to be a great writer, one must be well-read, capable of engaging in active and ongoing discourse with both one's peers and society at large. One manner of engaging in literary discourse is through allusion and direct reference, both to contemporary and historical written works. While Woolf does not include allusions simply for the purpose of appearing "well-read," the frequency with which she references other writers nonetheless contributes to her ethos as an author.
Related Themes:
