what is a allusion

An allusion is a figure of speech that references a person, place, event, or literary work, either directly or indirectly, to create resonance or draw a comparison. It's often used to convey a deeper meaning or context without having to provide an extensive explanation. For example, if a character in a novel is described as "a modern-day Hercules," that would be an allusion to the mythological hero known for his strength and heroic feats. Allusions can enrich a text by connecting it to broader cultural or historical themes.