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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
Chapter 7
Explanation and Analysis—Ashtoreth:
After Gabriel meets Bathsheba again, she has become the head farmer on her uncle’s estate. She has undergone a transformation in terms of attitude and maturity, as reflected in this allusion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The bailiff was pointed out to Gabriel who, checking the palpitation within his breast discovering that this Ashtoreth of strange report was only a modification of Venus the well-known and admired, retired with him to talk over the necessary preliminaries of hiring.
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Chapter 13
Explanation and Analysis—Daniel :
In this scene, the narrator describes Boldwood as a “Daniel” in Bathsheba’s kingdom, making a biblical allusion:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Boldwood’s had begun to be a troublesome image—a species of Daniel in her kingdom who persisted in kneeling eastward when reason and common sense said that he might just as well follow suit with the rest, and afford her the official glance of admiration which cost nothing at all.
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Chapter 54
Explanation and Analysis—Melpomene :
Far From the Madding Crowd teems with classical references. One example lies in the chapter after Boldwood murders Troy. After his death, Bathsheba takes the body of her husband home from Boldwood’s house. When the local vicar, a doctor, and Gabriel arrive, her expression is striking:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Liddy knocked; [...] the key turned in the lock, and she opened it. Her looks were calm and nearly rigid, like a slightly animated bust of Melpomene.
“Oh—Mr. Granthead—you have come at last,” she murmured from her lips merely, and threw back the door. “[...] Well, all is done, and anybody in the world may see him now.” She then passed by them, crossed the landing, and entered another room.
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