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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
Act 2, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—King Solomon:
Millamant tells Mirabell that she is not interested in marrying him in Act 2, Scene 6, and Mirabell laments the fact that straightforwardness hasn't won him romantic success. Millamant makes an allusion to King Solomon in the Bible:
Sententious Mirabell! Prithee, don’t look with that violent and inflexible wise face, like Solomon at the dividing of the child in an old tapestry hanging.
Related Themes:
Act 3, Scene 4
Explanation and Analysis—Moralist Bookshelf:
In Act 3, Scene 4, Wishfort tells Marwood to hide in her closet (more of a study than a storage room in this context) while she speaks to Foible and tries to see if Foible and Mirabell are up to something. Wishfort alludes to several moralist works, all on the bookshelf in the closet for Marwood to peruse:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Dear friend, retire into my closet, that I may examine her with more freedom. – You’ll pardon me, dear friend; I can make bold with you. – There are books over the chimney – Quarles and Prynne, and the Short View of the Stage, with Bunyan’s works, to entertain you.
Related Themes:
