AP ENGLISH Literature and Composition
Zane G. Porter – East Wake SHS – Spring 2015
Name: _____________________
Daily Allusion Assignment
Everyday, student(s) will provide the warm-up or the close or class by presenting an allusion found in
literature.
What is an allusion?
An allusion is a short reference to something famous or historical. It may be a person, place, thing, or
idea of historical, literary, or political significance. The allusion is not concerned with giving background
or explaining itself. The author expects the reader to have a deeper understanding and meaning of an
idea by associating the text with the allusion
Your assignment contains FIVE major parts:
1. CATEGORY: Include the category of the allusion.
a. Mythological (Greek, Roman, or both)/Legend
b. Literature
c. Biblical
d. Historical/Cultural
e. Other Religion
2. TITLE: Include the allusion as the title.
3. HISTORY: Give a brief description of the allusion’s history. More than is on the assignment.
a. What is the origin of the idea?
b. What makes the allusion important?
c. Is there any other information that would be helpful in understanding the allusion?
4. EXAMPLES: This may be the hardest part and take some searching around
a. An appropriate picture is optional.
b. An example in literature (poetry or prose, but not the original source).
c. An original, made-up example (You create this example).
5. PRESENTATION
a. Are you engaging?
b. Do you use the document camera?
c. Do you just read the paper or do you know and discuss the allusion well?
Length: The handout must be no more than one page (see the examples) and should last about 5
minutes.
My allusions to choose from:
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My Presentation Days:
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