105 pages • 3 hours read
Inkheart
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Literary Context: Allusions in Inkheart
Funke utilizes literary allusion throughout Inkheart. Allusions are references to objects or topics outside of the text, which are meant to draw on a reader’s preexisting knowledge. Each chapter of Inkheart begins with a quotation from a well-known novel, usually a children’s fantasy novel. These intertextual references cue readers, particularly readers who are familiar with a range of widely celebrated literary works, to expect certain thematic features in each chapter.
Chapter 3: “Going South” begins with a quote from The Wind in the Willows about the dangers of leaving the safety of the woods (21). Journeys and adventures are major themes throughout The Wind in the Willows; characters experience excitement, triumph, and tribulation when they leave the woods. This reinforces young protagonist Meggie’s anxiety at leaving the safety of her home and hints that she will encounter a range of unexpected and exciting events on her adventure.
Literary allusion is also used to cue readers to approaching danger and adversity. Chapter 48: “The Magpie” begins with a quote from T. H. White’s The Book of Merlin: “But they woke him early with words, their cruel, bright weapons” (432). The reader is forewarned that Mortola the Magpie will be threatening, cruel, and sinister in her meeting with Plus, gain access to 8,550+ more expert-written Study Guides. Including features:
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By Cornelia Funke
