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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 Tenant of Wildfell Hall
Chapter 17. Further Warnings
Explanation and Analysis—Vandyke:
When Arthur and Helen are first getting to know each other, he pulls her aside at a party to look at a Vandyke painting with him, as seen in the following passage:
I rose with alacrity. He drew my arm within his, and led me across the room to a splendid painting of Vandyke’s that I had noticed before, but not sufficiently examined. After a moment of silent contemplation, I was beginning to comment on its beauties and peculiarities, when, playfully pressing the hand he still retained within his arm, he interrupted me with –
“Never mind the picture, it was not for that I brought you here; it was to get you away from that scoundrelly old profligate yonder, who is looking as if he would like to challenge me for the affront.”
Related Themes:
Chapter 22. Traits of Friendship
Explanation and Analysis—Hereditary Honors:
Before Annabella and Lord Lowborough are engaged, several characters discuss the fact that Annabella is only interested in him because of his “title and pedigree.” In the following passage, Arthur tells Helen about Annabella’s true motivations:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“And the cream of the jest,” continued Mr Huntingdon, laughing, “is that the artful minx loves nothing about him, but his title and pedigree, and ‘that delightful old family seat.’”
Related Themes:
