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Alliteration
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
Allusions
Explanation and Analysis—A Poem to the Reader:
The book's epigraph comes in the form of a witty poem penned by the author Robert Louis Stevenson. Stevenson explicitly uses this device as a method of persuasion and even addresses the poem directly to the reader, whom he humorously refers to as "the hesitating purchaser."
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Chapter 7. I Go to Bristol
Explanation and Analysis—Dear Old Admiral Benbow:
In Chapter 7, Jim Hawkins leaves for Bristol and tearfully bids his home goodbye. Moved by his fondness for the family inn, Jim uses personification as he says a final farewell:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I said good-bye to mother and the cove where I had lived since I was born, and the dear old "Admiral Benbow"—since he was repainted, no longer quite so dear.
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Chapter 18. Narrative Continued by the Doctor: End of the First Day’s Fighting
Explanation and Analysis—Lain Like a Trojan:
In Chapter 18, Squire Trelawney’s gamekeeper and servant Tom Redruth is shot and killed by mutineers on Treasure Island. Narrated by Doctor Livesey, the novel then uses both an allusion and simile to describe Tom Redruth after his death:
Unlock with LitCharts A+He had lain like a Trojan behind his mattress in the galley; he had followed every order silently, doggedly, and well; he was the oldest of our party by a score of years; and now, sullen, old, serviceable servant, it was he that was to die.
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