Allusion
California Blue
Allusion: indirect reference to an event, person, place, or artistic work which the writer assumes the reader knows about; used effectively, the allusion economically links the text to the larger meaning of the other text.
In the novel, California Blue, David Klass effectively inserts multiple allusions throughout the text. These allusions are used to navigate the reader to a deeper meaning that runs throughout the text. Add three more allusions to those listed below. Once you have listed them, research the background of each allusion and determine to what deeper meaning the author is alluding. Be prepared to share your findings with the class.
Allusion
1. Socrates (2)
Background of Allusion – Socrates was a Greek Philosopher who taught his
students to question everything in society and life
in order to reveal the truth and strengthen their moral
resolve
Deeper meaning - Someone in this novel will be questioning society and
its ethical beliefs; they will question authority in their
insatiable quest for the truth
2. Julius Caesar/Rubicon (2)
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
3. Dark Ages (2)
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
4. Roger Bannister (40)
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
5. Munchkin in (61)
The Wizard of Oz
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
5. Columbus, Einstein, (70)
Marie Curie
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
6. Jesse Owens, (83)
Carl Lewis
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
7. Don Larsen (84)
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
8.
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
9.
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
10.
Background of Allusion –
Deeper meaning -
Write a reflective paragraph or two analyzing whether the allusions add to your appreciation of the novel; add strength and power to the protagonist; add background and adventure to the novel; reveal life’s cycle as it repeats; or show the strength of human nature.
Select three allusions from this list and add them to the assignment above.
8. Attila the Hun (57)
9. Babe Ruth (84)
10. Ralph Boston (84)
11. Igor Ter-Ovanesyan (84)
12. Bob Beamon (88)
13. Abe Lincoln (121)
14. Wizard of Oz movie (143)
15. Civil War (164)