Chronicle of a Death Foretold Allusions & Cultural References

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.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • Aureliano Buendía and Gerineldo Márquez, characters in 100 Years of Solitude (2.18)
  • By referencing these characters, Marquez puts this story in the larger context of the world of Macondo and 100 Years of Solitude. The reactions of the characters also alert us to what side of the civil wars they supported, giving us deeper insight into their class values.

Historical References

  • Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba‬ (2.16)
  • Model T Ford (2.18)
  • Sir Francis Drake (5.3)
  • Nietzsche (5.3)
  • Archimedes (5.7)

Pop Culture References

  • Cumbiamba (2.49)