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Discover how ancient myths still influence the language and brands we use today.
Did you know that every time you put on a pair of Nike shoes or see an Amazon delivery truck, you are participating in a story that is over 2,500 years old?
An allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing, or idea of historical, cultural, literary, or political significance. Think of it as a 'literary shortcut.' Instead of explaining a complex idea from scratch, an author refers to a famous story they expect you already know. In Grade 6, we focus on mythological allusions, which come from the ancient stories of the Greeks and Romans. When a writer uses an allusion, they are inviting you into an 'inside joke' or a shared understanding that makes their writing more powerful.
Quick Check
In your own words, what is the main purpose of using an allusion in a story?
Answer
To act as a 'shortcut' by referencing a famous story or character to explain an idea quickly.
Many phrases we use today are actually allusions to Greek myths. These are called idioms. For example, if someone says a person has an Achilles' heel, they are referring to the hero Achilles. According to legend, his mother dipped him in the River Styx to make him invincible, but she held him by his heel, leaving that one spot vulnerable. Today, the phrase means a person's one specific weakness. Another common one is the Midas touch, referring to King Midas who turned everything he touched into gold. Today, it describes someone who is very lucky or successful in business.
Read the following sentence: 'Math has always been my Achilles' heel, even though I get straight 's in English.'
1. Identify the allusion: Achilles' heel. 2. Recall the myth: Achilles was strong but had one weak spot. 3. Determine the meaning: The speaker is great at English but has a specific weakness in Math.
Quick Check
If a coach says a new player has the 'Midas touch,' what does she mean?
Answer
She means the player is very successful or everything they do on the field turns out well.
Companies use allusions to give their brands instant 'personality.' By naming a company after a god or goddess, they borrow that deity's powers. Nike is named after the Greek goddess of victory—perfect for a sports brand! Amazon is named after a tribe of powerful women warriors, suggesting the company is large and strong. Even the Pandora music app is an allusion to the first woman in Greek myth. While 'Pandora's Box' contained troubles, it also contained hope, and the name suggests a box that, when opened, reveals a world of endless variety.
Imagine a new home security company called Argus Security.
1. Research: In mythology, Argus was a giant with eyes who was a perfect watchman. 2. Connect: Why choose this name? 3. Conclusion: The company wants customers to feel like their homes are being watched by someone who 'sees everything' and never sleeps.
Use an allusion to describe a character's curiosity.
1. Concept: Excessive curiosity that leads to trouble. 2. Allusion: Pandora's Box. 3. Draft: 'Opening that mysterious email was like opening Pandora's Box; suddenly, my computer was filled with viruses I couldn't stop.'
Which term describes a 'literary shortcut' that refers to a famous myth?
If a business is described as having an 'Achilles' heel,' what does it have?
The brand name 'Nike' is an allusion to the Greek goddess of wisdom.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to list three brands or idioms you see in the real world that come from Greek mythology.
Practice Activity
Look through a magazine or a website and find one logo. Research if its name or symbol has a connection to an ancient myth.