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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
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Irish Heroes:
Malachy Sr. frequently references influential figures from Irish history and folklore, including Eamon de Valera, Michael Collins, Kevin Barry, the Red Branch Knights, and the “Fenian Men.” He’s keen to make his sons understand that their lives are part of a larger Irish cultural and historical narrative and to instil a sense of pride in them about it. While this works in some ways, in others it taints the stories of these figures with Malachy Sr.’s own stereotypically negative Irish history.
Related Themes:
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Cuchulain:
In this passage, McCourt makes allusions to the legendary Irish hero Cuchulain, explaining a key source of connection between Frank and his father. Malachy Sr., a great storyteller, recounts the story to Frank as follows:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I’ll change my name to Cuchulain, the Hound of Culain. He did. He guarded the house and regions beyond and became a great hero, the Hound of Ulster itself. Dad said he was a greater hero than Hercules or Achilles that the Greeks were always bragging about and he could take on King Arthur and all his knights [...] That’s my story. Dad can’t tell that story to Malachy or any other children down the hall. He finishes the story and lets me sip his tea. It’s bitter, but I’m happy there on his lap.
Related Themes:
Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Jewels in My Mouth:
When Frank is stuck in the hospital with typhoid, he has a lot of time to read. Here, the author uses allusion and simile to convey Frank’s newfound fascination with Shakespeare, despite his limited understanding of the historical context of the plays the book refers to:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I do believe, induced by potent circumstances
That thou art mine enemy.
The history writer says this is what Catherine, who is a wife of Henry the Eighth, says to Cardinal Wolsey, who is trying to have her head cut off. I don’t know what it means and I don’t care because it’s Shakespeare and it’s like having jewels in my mouth when I say the words.
Related Themes:
