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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
Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Jacob and Esau:
Upon seeing Eilif and Swiss Cheese pulling Mother Courage’s cart in Scene 1, the Recruiting Officer calls them “Jacob Ox and Esau Ox,” alluding to a story from the Old Testament of the Bible. Jacob and Esau are fraternal twins belonging to Isaac and Rebekah. Through a long and convoluted tale involving deception and violence, the two brothers vie for their birthright. Initially, Esau, the elder twin, had the right to the inheritance, but he gave it up over a bowl of soup. However, he eventually wants it back.
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Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Eilif as Caesar:
In Scene 2, after Eilif butchered peasants and stole their cattle, the Swedish Commander makes an allusion when he tells him: “You have the markings of a Julius Caesar, why, you should be presented to the king!” Julius Caesar, before becoming the dictator of the Roman Empire, gained fame as a general for his victories in Gaul. The Roman senate awarded him honors for his martial prowess. By making this allusion in reference to Eilif, the Commander pays him a great compliment.
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Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—Don Juan:
In Scene 6, after Mother Courage reveals she still has the Cook's pipe, the Chaplain calls the Cook a “Don Juan.” Don Juan is an aristocrat from Spanish literature who obsessively seduces women and commits other sins, such as violent crime and gambling. He acts in deceitful ways, taking on disguises and using lies to seduce women across ages and classes. The first written mention of Don Juan occurs in 1630 in Spain, making it highly unlikely that a Northern European in the early 1630s like the Chaplain would know about the character. Therefore, the allusion is an anachronism, and signals to the audience that the play does not attempt to be a genuine representation of life in the Thirty Years’ War.
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