Cultural Allusions and Word Meaning
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as used in literary texts, including understanding references to mythology and cultural allusions (e.g., Herculean, Achilles' heel)
What a learner can do afterwards
- Explain the meaning of an allusion drawn from mythology when encountered in a text, e.g. identify that 'Herculean task' means an extremely difficult task, referencing Hercules' legendary labours
- Use context and knowledge of word parts to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words in a poem or story, explaining how the word contributes to tone or meaning
- Identify when an author is using a word figuratively rather than literally and explain the intended meaning in context
The lesson
Writers sometimes borrow a name or phrase from an old myth to say something without spelling it out. This is called an allusion. When you know the story behind the name, you unlock the extra meaning hiding in the sentence.
In an old Greek myth, Hercules was a hero who had to complete twelve impossible labors, like cleaning a giant stable in a single day. Today, if you read that someone faces 'a Herculean task,' it means the job is extremely hard, almost impossible.
Achilles was a mighty warrior in Greek myth who could be hurt in only one spot: his heel. That single weak spot led to his downfall. So when you read about someone's 'Achilles' heel,' it means their one weakness, even if they seem strong everywhere else.
When you spot a phrase with a name you don't recognize, look for the capital letter. That's often your clue it's an allusion. Use the sentences around it, or look up the name, to find out what it really means.
An allusion borrows meaning from an old story: Herculean means extremely hard, and an Achilles' heel means one weak spot.
Watch it
Where it sits
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Where this leads
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.