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Alliteration
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—Music:
Music is utilized as a means of survival, protest, expression, and community in Beloved. This motif often shows up in the form of allusions. For example, Paul D's work song that he sings as he fixes up 124 is an adaptation of a real railroad work song called "Sis Joe." The allusion reminds the reader that suffering like that in the novel reflects the reality of slavery. Furthermore, the song's beat aligns with the beat of Paul D's hammering, highlighting how songs were used to survive harsh working conditions.
Related Themes:
Part 1, Chapter 15
Explanation and Analysis—Bible:
Beloved is wrought with biblical allusions, which begin as early as the epigraph. These allusions elevate the text to become universal in its meaning, like the Bible. The novel uses this broader significance and the familiarity of many readers with the Bible to two effects.
First, allusive comparisons allow the novel to portray its characters effectively. In Chapter 15, Beloved compares Baby Suggs to Jesus by alluding to a Biblical story where Jesus performs a miracle to feed a large crowd with only five loaves of bread and two fish.
Unlock with LitCharts A+Baby Suggs’ three (maybe four) pies grew to ten (maybe twelve). Sethe’s two hens became five turkeys. The one block of ice brought all the way from Cincinnati—over which they poured mashed watermelon mixed with sugar and mint to make a punch—became a wagonload of ice cakes for a washtub full of strawberry shrug. 124, rocking with laughter, goodwill and food for ninety, made them angry.
Related Themes:
