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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
Chapter 19
Explanation and Analysis—The Pharaoh:
In Chapter 19, Sullivan makes an allusion to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt—a lineage of monarchs who enslaved vulnerable subjects for economic, political, and agricultural gain.When Pino witnesses the over 15,000 enslaved Europeans alongside the Apennine Mountains, he recalls the history of humans subjugating other humans:
It seemed to Pino a scene as old as time, an update on the pharaohs who enslaved generations of men to build their tombs. [...] Pharaoh’s slave master, Pino thought. That was what Antonio, the partisan fighter from Turin, had called Leyers. The slave master himself.
Related Themes:
Chapter 25
Explanation and Analysis—Puppet Dictator:
In Chapter 25, Pino accompanies General Leyers to a personal meeting with Benito Mussolini himself. During this meeting, in which the two men discuss a rumor of Hitler's so-called "super weapon," Sullivan alludes to Mussolini’s infamous identity as a “puppet dictator":
Unlock with LitCharts A+The general said, “Duce and I need to have a frank talk.” “About what?” Mussolini asked, head still down. Closer now, Pino could see the puppet dictator was staring at a map of Italy.
Related Themes:
