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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
Key Examples in Robinson Crusoe
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Biblical Allusions:
Robinson Crusoe is replete with biblical allusions. The main character compares his experiences, and particularly his struggles, with those of figures from the Bible. In addition, Robinson evidently sees himself as belonging to a lineage of important men who have been guided by God, punished by God, and who have withstood God's trials. Besides the allusion to Jonah, Defoe also alludes to Solomon, the Prodigal Son, Abraham, Elijah, Saul, and Job. He also actively quotes or paraphrases key passages from the Bible, taking from Psalms, Acts, John, Joshua, Hebrews, Romans, Matthew, Exodus, and more. Robinson additionally refers to the Book of Common Prayer.
Related Themes:
Chapter 2
Explanation and Analysis—Jonah's Storm:
In Chapter 2, Robinson sets off on a voyage and experiences his two first storms as a sailor. The first storm seems to make an impression on no one but Robinson himself, and the other sailors mock his naiveté when he reveals that it frightened him. The second storm, however, frightens everyone on board; even the weathered Shipmaster prays to God for assistance, certain that they "shall be all lost, [...] all undone."
When they make it back to shore instead of foundering, the Shipmaster finds out that Robinson had considered this voyage as a trial. This discovery enrages the Shipmaster, who tells Robinson to go back home and prophecies that he will face great calamities if he continues on his seafaring adventure. Alluding to Jonah, he suggests that their near-death experience was Robinson's fault.
Unlock with LitCharts A+Young man, [...] you ought never to go to sea any more, you ought to take this as a plain and visible token that you are not to be a seafaring man [...] as you made this voyage for a trial, you see what a taste Heaven has given you of what you are to expect if you persist; perhaps this is all befallen us on your account, like Jonah in the Ship of Tarshish.
Related Themes:
Chapter 3
Explanation and Analysis—Slaying a Lion:
In Chapter 3, following his escape from Morocco, Robinson comes across a lion. With the help of Xury, he clumsily but successfully slays the great beast and takes its skin. This episode is an allusion to the Greek hero Hercules and his slaying of the Nemean Lion.
