What should a reader do if they do not recognise the reference made by an allusion?

1. Recall the definition of allusion.

2. Look for analogies.

3. Look up the word or phrase.

4. Use context clues.

All of the options provided are potential strategies that a reader can utilize if they do not recognize the reference made by an allusion. However, the most appropriate course of action would be to:

3. Look up the word or phrase.

By looking up the unfamiliar word or phrase, the reader can gain a better understanding and potentially uncover the reference being made. This allows the reader to enhance their comprehension and fully grasp the intended meaning of the text.

If a reader does not recognize the reference made by an allusion, they can follow these steps:

1. Recall the definition of allusion: Understand that an allusion is a reference to a person, place, event, or literary work that the reader is expected to already know. Keeping this in mind will help the reader approach the text.

2. Look for analogies: Try to find similarities or connections between the allusion and other familiar concepts to gain a better understanding. This can be done by analyzing the context of the allusion and comparing it to known information.

3. Look up the word or phrase: If the allusion is a specific word or phrase, it can be beneficial to search for its meaning. Using online dictionaries, encyclopedias, or literary references can provide the necessary information to comprehend the allusion.

4. Use context clues: Analyze the surrounding text for any clues that may contextualize the allusion. Pay attention to the tone, mood, and themes of the text, as well as any other clues provided in the immediate context. These context clues may help the reader infer the meaning of the allusion.

By following these steps, the reader can gain a better understanding of the reference being made and enhance their overall comprehension of the text.