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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 Underground Railroad
Chapter 9: Caesar
Explanation and Analysis—Gulliver's Travels:
Apart from the Declaration of Independence and the Bible, the novel pays special attention to Gulliver’s Travels in Caesar’s chapter, going so far as to even quote a line from it:
What became of my companions in the boat, as well as those who escaped the rock, or were left on the vessel, I cannot tell; but conclude they were all lost. The book will get him killed, Fletcher warned. Caesar hid Travels into Several Remote Nations in the dirt under the schoolhouse, wrapped in two swatches of burlap.
Related Themes:
Chapter 10: Indiana
Explanation and Analysis—From Wheatley to Banneker:
During her time at the Valentine’s farm, Cora comes across almanacs that introduce her to the history of the world and, importantly, the contributions of famous Black people, in a series of allusions:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Pamphlets of verse by negro poets, autobiographies of colored orators. Phillis Wheatley and Jupiter Hammon. There was a man named Benjamin Banneker who composed almanacs—almanacs!
Related Themes:
