An allusion is a reference to elements from other literature, mythology, or history. Using readers’ pre-existing associations and cultural knowledge, allusions can:
Present a context or backstory. In Beowulf, making Grendel the son of Cain establishes him as evil.
Borrow themes. In Beowulf, the allusion to Cain sets up Biblical themes about good and evil.
Rework or revise themes. In Grendel, Biblical allusions — introduced through the Shaper — highlight the limitations of viewing the world as a struggle between good and evil.
Explore changes or continuities between eras and contexts. In Grendel, Wealhtheow's self-sacrifice evokes Christ’s sacrifice, but this looks very different in the context of heroic society.
Highlight the universality of human experiences. In The Handmaid’s Tale, allusions to the oppression of women in the Bible ask us to consider how the same misogynistic instincts have manifested themselves in diverse forms throughout history.
Challenge our pre-existing associations and expectations through irony. In The Handmaid’s Tale, the backdrop of Harvard emphasizes the anti-intellectualism of the people in power.