Allusions

Front

What is an allusion?

Back

An allusion is a reference to a famous person, place, or event.

Front

What does it mean if someone is referred to as a 'Scrooge'?

Back

It means that the person is stingy or miserly, similar to Ebenezer Scrooge from 'A Christmas Carol'.

Front

What is the significance of 'Big Brother' in literature?

Back

'Big Brother' represents a threatening power that monitors all aspects of people's lives, originating from George Orwell's '1984'.

Front

What does the phrase 'Achilles' heel' refer to?

Back

It refers to a person's weakness or vulnerability, derived from the Greek myth of Achilles.

Front

What does it mean to act like 'The Three Stooges'?

Back

It means to act silly or ridiculous.

Front

Which of the following is an example of an allusion: 'He lies so much, I'm surprised his nose doesn't grow like Pinocchio's.'?

Back

Yes, this is an allusion to the story of Pinocchio, whose nose grows when he lies.

Front

What is the purpose of using allusions in writing?

Back

Allusions enrich the text by connecting it to broader cultural, historical, or literary contexts.

Front

Can an allusion be a reference to a modern event?

Back

Yes, allusions can reference contemporary events, figures, or cultural phenomena.

Front

What is the difference between an allusion and a direct reference?

Back

An allusion is an indirect reference that relies on the reader's familiarity with the subject, while a direct reference explicitly names the subject.

Front

Give an example of an allusion in popular culture.

Back

An example is saying someone has a 'Herculean task,' referencing Hercules' legendary strength.