Allusions 3rd Quarter Flashcards
(15 cards)
What does ‘stealing someone’s thunder’ mean?
To take credit for someone else’s idea.
Originates from a playwright who was widely copied.
What is a ‘witch hunt’?
A campaign against a particular group of people based on flimsy evidence.
Refers to the events in Salem, Massachusetts.
What does it mean to ‘throw down the gauntlet’?
To issue a challenge.
Originates from the practice of knighthood involving a heavy glove.
Who are ‘The Muses’?
Nine goddesses who are the source of inspiration.
What does ‘Kafkaesque’ refer to?
A situation that is bizarre and anxiety-producing.
Named after Franz Kafka’s work, ‘The Metamorphosis’.
What is the ‘Tower of Babel’?
A biblical story representing noisy confusion due to different languages.
Found in the book of Genesis.
What does ‘Pollyanna’ mean?
A person who looks on the bright side.
Originates from the story ‘The Glad Game’.
What are ‘Pavlov’s dogs’?
An example of an unthinking response or automatic reaction.
Based on the experiment of presenting food to dogs while ringing a bell.
What does ‘Bedlam’ refer to?
A state of wild chaos.
Named after St. Mary of Bethlehem Hospital.
What is ‘the handwriting on the wall’?
A sign of impending misfortune.
Originates from the biblical story of Daniel.
What does ‘an albatross around one’s neck’ mean?
An ongoing problem or burden.
Derived from Coleridge’s ‘The Ancient Mariner’.
Who is Prometheus?
A figure who stole fire and was punished for rebellion against authority.
What is a ‘juggernaut’?
A destructive force.
Named after a Hindu deity and a large cart.
What does ‘red herring’ mean?
A distraction from the truth.
Originates from confusing hounds with fish.
Who are the ‘Pharisees’?
Individuals who are outwardly pious but inwardly corrupt.
Represents a hypocritical act.
