When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.
Literature, Philosophy, and Mythology
- Don Quixote, (1.3, 1.10), Rosinante (Don Quixote’s horse), (1.4)
- Achilles, Ajax, Joseph, (7.29)
- The Bible (9.7)
- Circe (36.26) If you want a good description of who Circe is, check out Shmoop's coverage of The Odyssey.
- Judith (49.5) – This is a Biblical reference. Judith was a woman who ventured alone into enemy camp in order to slay the leader threatening her people.
Historical Figures
- King Louis XIII
- Queen Anne of Austria
- Cardinal Richelieu
- Duke of Buckingham
- John Felton
- La Rochelle
- Messalina (53.47)