ELAGSE7L5a Allusions

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What is an allusion?

Back

An allusion is a reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance, often used to make a comparison or to convey a deeper meaning.

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What does it mean when someone says, 'My brother is a regular Einstein'?

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It means that the person's brother is intelligent, comparing him to Albert Einstein, a famous physicist known for his intelligence.

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What does the term 'Big Brother' refer to in literature?

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'Big Brother' refers to a figure of authority that watches and controls people, originating from George Orwell's novel '1984', symbolizing oppressive surveillance.

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What does it mean to say, 'I'm no Hercules, but I could open that jelly jar for you'?

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It means that the speaker is not claiming to be a demigod like Hercules, but is implying that they are strong enough to perform the task.

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What does it mean when someone says, 'I felt like Cupid had struck me with his arrow'?

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It means that the person felt an instant attraction or love for someone or something, referencing Cupid, the Roman god of love.

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What is the significance of the phrase 'opening up a Pandora's box'?

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It means to start a process that may lead to unforeseen and potentially negative consequences, referencing the Greek myth of Pandora who unleashed chaos into the world.

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How can allusions enhance writing?

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Allusions can enhance writing by adding depth, creating connections, and evoking emotions or imagery that resonate with the reader.

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What is a common example of an allusion in everyday language?

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A common example is saying someone has a 'Midas touch', which refers to the ability to turn everything into success, referencing King Midas from Greek mythology.

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What does it mean to say, 'He has the patience of Job'?

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It means that the person is very patient, referencing Job from the Bible, who endured great suffering without losing his patience.

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What is the purpose of using allusions in literature?

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The purpose is to create connections, provide context, and enrich the text by drawing on shared knowledge and cultural references.