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Allegory
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
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis—Curse of Ham:
In Chapter 1, Douglass alludes to a common biblical justification for the institution of slavery. He uses logos to dismantle this justification:
If the lineal descendants of Ham are alone to be scripturally enslaved, it is certain that slavery at the south must soon become unscriptural; for thousands are ushered into the world, annually, who, like myself, owe their existence to white fathers, and those fathers most frequently their own masters.
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Chapter 10
Explanation and Analysis—Patrick Henry:
In Chapter 10, Douglass describes the difficult decision he and some of his fellow enslaved people must make about whether to stay put under the familiar conditions of enslavement or whether to run away toward unknown obstacles. Douglass alludes to Patrick Henry's famous "liberty or death" speech to convey the weight of the decision:
Unlock with LitCharts A+In coming to a fixed determination to run away, we did more than Patrick Henry, when he resolved upon liberty or death. With us it was a doubtful liberty at most, and almost certain death if we failed. For my part, I should prefer death to hopeless bondage.
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