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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 Self-Reliance
Paragraphs 1-2
Explanation and Analysis—Moses, Plato, and Milton:
Emerson makes allusions to “great men” in order to reframe the reasons for their greatness:
Familiar as the voice of the mind is to each, the highest merit we ascribe to Moses, Plato, and Milton is, that they set at naught books and traditions, and spoke not what men but what they thought.
Related Themes:
Paragraphs 12-16
Explanation and Analysis—Joseph's Coat:
As Emerson argues in favor of inconsistency, he alludes to the biblical story of Joseph and his coat:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Leave your theory, as Joseph his coat in the hand of the harlot, and flee.
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Paragraphs 35-50
Explanation and Analysis—The Caliph Ali:
As he argues against a reliance on property, Emerson quotes the Caliph Ali:
Unlock with LitCharts A+But that which a man is does always by necessity acquire [...] living property, which [...] perpetually renews itself wherever the man breathes. “Thy lot or portion of life,” said the Caliph Ali, “is seeking after thee; therefore be at rest from seeking after it.”
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Explanation and Analysis—Fletcher's Bonduca:
Emerson alludes to Bonduca, a play written by John Fletcher:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Caratach, in Fletcher’s Bonduca, when admonished to inquire the mind of the god Audate, replies, “His hidden meaning lies in our endeavors; Our valors are our best gods.”
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