Allusion:

Figurative Language:

Connotations:

Interpret:
write it in your words

Allusion: A reference to a well-known person, event, or work of art.

Figurative Language: Language that uses words or expressions with a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation.
Connotations: The emotional or cultural associations that words may carry, beyond their literal meaning.

Interpretation: In literature, an allusion can be a powerful form of figurative language that adds depth and layers of meaning to a text by evoking connotations associated with the referenced person, event, or work of art. By recognizing and interpreting these allusions, readers can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the text.

1. I hoped to sign the birthday card our team bought for Coach, but I couldn’t find a spot to sign my name because someone went all John Hancock on it and signed his name across the whole card.

Reference to: ______________________________________________________
Possible meaning: __________________________________________________

2. Although the earthquake did a great deal of damage, it was nothing like the disaster of 9/11.

Reference to: ______________________________________________________
Possible meaning: __________________________________________________

3. I poured myself a cup of coffee in the teacher's lounge and took a sip. It wasn't Starbucks, but the jolt of hot, steamy caffeine helped wake me up.

Reference to: ______________________________________________________
Possible meaning: __________________________________________________

1. Reference to: John Hancock, a famous signature on the Declaration of Independence.

Possible meaning: Someone signed the card in a bold and prominent manner.

2. Reference to: The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Possible meaning: The earthquake caused damage, but the speaker is emphasizing that 9/11 was a far more significant and devastating disaster.

3. Reference to: Starbucks, a popular coffee chain known for its strong and flavorful coffee.
Possible meaning: The speaker is contrasting the coffee in the teacher's lounge with Starbucks, implying that while it may not be as high-quality, it still served its purpose of providing a much-needed caffeine boost.

Which of the following is most important in the interpretation of an allusion?

the attention of the reader B. the level of meaning
C. communicating effectively D. understanding the reference

D. understanding the reference

Understanding the reference is the most important factor in the interpretation of an allusion because without knowing the significance of the alluded person, event, or work, the reader may not fully grasp the intended meaning or connection that the author is trying to convey.

Which connection must be made to interpret an allusion?

a personal connection between the author and the referenced subject matter
a connection between what is implied and what is referred to in the text
a connection between what the reader knows and what is referred to in the text
a personal connection between the reader and the author

a connection between what the reader knows and what is referred to in the text

To interpret an allusion, the reader must make a connection between their own knowledge and understanding of the referenced subject matter in the text. This connection allows the reader to grasp the deeper meaning or significance of the allusion within the context of the text.

Antonym -

Example:

Synonym -

Example:

Context Clues -

Antonym - A word that has the opposite meaning of another word.

Example: The antonym of "big" is "small."

Synonym - A word that has a similar meaning to another word.

Example: The synonym of "happy" is "joyful."

Context Clues - Information provided in the surrounding text that helps readers understand the meaning of unfamiliar words.