The Necklace
by Guy de Maupassant

The Necklace: Allusions 1 key example

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 Necklace

Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—Sphinxlike Smiles:

In a description of Mathilde's fantasies about "elegant dinners," de Maupassant alludes to classical mythology: 

[S]he fantasized about elegant dinners, [....] about gallantries whispered and listened to with sphinxlike smiles[.]