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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 Merchant of Venice
Act 1, scene 3
Explanation and Analysis—Biblical References:
Characters in Merchant reference the Bible on numerous occasions. One of the most notable examples occurs in Act 1, Scene 3, as Shylock and Antonio debate the lawfulness of usury. Shylock defends the practice, citing the story of Jacob from the Book of Genesis. Shylock reminds Antonio how Jacob, working as a shepherd for his uncle Laban, made an agreement in which he could keep all of the sheep born with streaks and spots. Jacob then cast a spell so that all of the ewes birthed streaked and spotted lambs, which he got to keep per his contract. Shylock defends Jacob's actions, which he equates with his own business of collecting interest:
This was a way to thrive, and he was blest
And thrift is blessing if men steal it not.
Related Themes:
Act 4, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Biblical References:
Characters in Merchant reference the Bible on numerous occasions. One of the most notable examples occurs in Act 1, Scene 3, as Shylock and Antonio debate the lawfulness of usury. Shylock defends the practice, citing the story of Jacob from the Book of Genesis. Shylock reminds Antonio how Jacob, working as a shepherd for his uncle Laban, made an agreement in which he could keep all of the sheep born with streaks and spots. Jacob then cast a spell so that all of the ewes birthed streaked and spotted lambs, which he got to keep per his contract. Shylock defends Jacob's actions, which he equates with his own business of collecting interest:
Unlock with LitCharts A+This was a way to thrive, and he was blest
And thrift is blessing if men steal it not.
Related Themes:
Act 5, scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Star-Crossed Lovers:
Act 5, scene 1, opens with Lorenzo musing aloud to Jessica and making some classical allusions:
Unlock with LitCharts A+The moon shines bright. In such a night as this,
When the sweet wind did gently kiss the trees
And they did make no noise, in such a night
Troilus, methinks, mounted the Trojan walls
And sighed his soul toward the Grecian tents / Where Cressid lay that night.
Related Themes:
