Aim: How does Harper Lee rely on allusion?

By Definition An allusion is a figure of speech whereby the author refers to a subject matter such as a place, event, or literary work by way of a passing reference. It is up to the reader to make a connection to the subject being mentioned.

Your Task Find three (3) allusions from anywhere in To Kill a Mockingbird. In your notes, record the full line(s) in which each allusion appears. You will be responsible for doing research, and for presenting, on one of the allusions.

As a writing strategy... The use of allusions provides a historical context. Anyone reading To Kill a Mockingbird, would find allusions to the Great Depression and to the beginning of World War II that are uniquely part of the American South during this period. You also find allusions to the Civil War that remind the reader that this book takes place in the American South (where the Civil War was lost).

Research You will be assigned to do research on one allusion from Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. Find the original context of the allusion in the novel. Find a source that provides information on the allusion. Prepare a brief presentation (1 minute) in which you sum up the allusion for the class. Sum up what you find in your words. Identify the source. Provide the exact title of the source you find, including the URL. Be prepared to discuss your research process.

Assessment Introduce Context. Sum up your research in your words. Identify source. Explain research process.

Avoid Wikipedia Personal blogs Yahoo Answers.coms

Instead Narrow your search Try to find academic institutions Refer to major journalism sites Look for the “holy grail” of sources; don’t use a source that someone else has Search for.org,.edu,.gov