Previous
Alliteration
Definition of Allusion
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals, historical events, or philosophical ideas... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to other literary works, famous individuals... read full definition
In literature, an allusion is an unexplained reference to someone or something outside of the text. Writers commonly allude to... read full definition
Act 2, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis—Walter as Prometheus:
George Murchison, Beneatha's boyfriend from a wealthy Black family, calls Walter Prometheus as he departs:
Good night, Prometheus!
Walter felt scorned by Georg and mocked him, so George returns the favor here. Prometheus was the ancient Greek Titan who supposedly brought fire down from the gods and gave it to man. He was punished by Zeus as a result, with a vulture eating out his liver (which perpetually regrew) day after day. No matter the specific variation of the Prometheus myth, Prometheus represents human ingenuity and innovation—as well as the unintended consequences that occasionally result from human striving. While a mocking comparison, this allusion is fundamentally flattering Walter by evoking a symbol of human progress in response to Walter’s tirade on what Black Americans should be learning in school, even if the allusion is made facetiously. Walter, however, doesn’t even understand the allusion—he retorts, “Prometheus! I bet there ain’t even no such thing!”
The allusion to Prometheus represents the divide between educated Black Americans like George and working-class Americans like Walter. After all, only George understands the allusion. There is, however, a worthwhile comparison between Prometheus and Walter that is evidenced throughout the play: like Prometheus, Walter dreams of a better future for his kin and is effectively punished as a result.
Related Themes:
