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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 The Last of the Mohicans
Chapter 11
Explanation and Analysis—Artificial Mounds:
At the beginning of Chapter 11, Magua selects a hill to rest on with the hostages. Cooper describes the hill by alluding to prairie mounds:
THE Indian had selected, for this desirable purpose, one of those steep, pyramidal hills, which bear a strong resemblance to artificial mounds, and which so frequently occur in the valleys of America. The one in question was high and precipitous; its top flattened, as usual; but with one of its sides more than ordinarily irregular. It possessed no other apparent advantage for a resting-place than in its elevation and form, which might render defense easy, and surprise nearly impossible.
Related Themes:
Chapter 25
Explanation and Analysis—Nothing But Roaring:
The epigraph to Chapter 25 is an allusion to Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream, and it foreshadows a comedic revelation that takes place in the chapter:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“Snug.—Have you the lion’s part written? Pray you, if it be, give it me, for I am slow of study. “Quince.—You may do it extempore, for it is nothing but roaring.”
Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Related Themes:
Chapter 27
Explanation and Analysis—Prince of Darkness:
In Chapter 27, after Hawkeye, David, and Uncas have orchestrated Uncas's escape through use of the bear costume, Magua seethes in rage and vows revenge. Cooper uses personification and an allusion to dramatize the scene:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Occasionally the air breathed through the crevices of the hut, and the low flames, that fluttered about the embers of the fire threw their wavering light on the person of the sullen recluse. At such moments it would not have been difficult to have fancied the dusky savage the Prince of Darkness, brooding on his own fancied wrongs, and plotting evil.
Related Themes:
