allusion etymology

Etymology:

  • Latin: "alludere"
  • "ad-" (to) + "ludere" (to play)
  • Literally: "to play toward"

Meaning:

  • An indirect reference to a work of literature, art, history, or mythology.
  • A suggestion or hint to something from the past, present, or future through the use of words or phrases.
  • It creates a connection between two texts or ideas.

Origin:

  • The term "allusion" was first used in the 16th century to describe a rhetorical device that created an implied comparison or reference.
  • It originated from the classical tradition of writers using references to Greek and Roman mythology and literature to enhance their own works.
  • Over time, the concept of allusion expanded to include references to a wide range of works and ideas.

Types of Allusions:

  • Mythological: References to myths, legends, or religious stories.
  • Historical: References to past events, people, or places.
  • Literary: References to other works of fiction, poetry, or drama.
  • Biblical: References to the Bible or other religious texts.
  • Cultural: References to shared values, beliefs, or customs.

Functions of Allusions:

  • Enrich the text with additional meanings and depth.
  • Create connections between different works and time periods.
  • Appeal to the reader's knowledge and cultural background.
  • Enhance the reader's understanding and interpretation of the text.

Examples:

  • In Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the character of Hamlet quotes the biblical parable of Cain and Abel, alluding to the theme of murder and vengeance.
  • In Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," the character of Mr. Darcy is compared to Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy in Samuel Richardson's novel "Pamela," highlighting his pride and aloofness.
  • In George Orwell's "1984," the totalitarian government is likened to the Soviet Union, alluding to the dangers of government control and propaganda.

allusion relate terms

  • ludicrous

    Etymology The word ludicrous is derived from the Latin word ludicrus which means p

  • aggression

    Etymology of Aggression The term aggression derives from the Latin word aggressio w

  • accursed

    Etymology The word accursed comes from the Late Latin word accursus which means to ru

  • afford

    Etymology and Origin Origin Middle English c 1300 provide for Etymology From Old

  • adjourn

    Etymology The word adjourn is derived from the Latin word adiornare meaning to post

  • advance

    Etymology The word advance comes from the Old French word avancer which originally m

  • address

    Etymology The word address derives from the Old French word adrecier which in turn

  • advertisement

    Etymology French avertissement Late Latin advertentia attention warning Meaning

  • fritillary

    Etymology From Latin fritillus the diminutive of fritillum a dice box that resembled

  • leaven

    Etymology Old English lēafnes from lēfan to leave Middle English leven levenen Ge

  • ferret

    Etymology The word ferret comes from the Middle French word furet meaning little t

  • whistle

    Etymology The word whistle comes from the Middle English word whistele which itself

  • bone

    Etymology The word bone derives from the Proto Germanic bainaz meaning bone This r

  • marrowbone

    Etymology The word marrowbone comes from the Old English words mearu marrow and ba

  • mention

    Etymology Etymology refers to the study of the origin and historical development of words

  • reference

    Etymology is the study of the origin and development of words and their meanings It exami

  • pretend

    Pretend Etymology From Middle English pretenden meaning to claim or profess to be