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 References
- Kate Greenaway (1.1.14). The narrator describes little Marie Tovesky as being dressed in the "Kate Greenaway" style. Kate Greenaway (1846-1901) was an illustrator and author of children's books. For an idea of what the narrator is talking about here, check this out.
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1.4.36). The narrator lets us know that this is one of Alexandra's favorite poets. Longfellow (1807-1882) is a famous American poet who wrote lyric poems, especially about legends and myths.
- Frithjof's Saga (1.4.36). The narrator also tells us that Frithjof's Saga is among Alexandra's favorite reads. This text belongs to the Icelandic Sagas, tales passed down since Viking times.
- "The Swiss Family Robinson" (1.4.46). The Bergson family gathers around to listen to this story, about a Swiss family shipwrecked on their way to Australia. It was published in 1812 by Johann David Wyss.
Shakespearean References
Throughout Part IV, "The White Mulberry Tree," O Pioneers! borrows themes from Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream as well as from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Though these texts aren't explicitly referenced, the allusions are pretty obvious. Check out our section on "Symbols" for more!
Biblical References
- Psalm 104:10 (1.3.26). When we first encounter Ivar, he is reciting a passage from Psalm 104:10. This psalm is similar to Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, in that it depicts the creation of the world.
- The Massacre of the Innocents (4.6.6). This passage refers to two Christian and Jewish stories about the brutality of those in power. The first is known as the Massacre of the Innocents. Herod, the Roman appointed king of the Jews, ordered that all young male children in and around Bethlehem be put to death. It had been prophesied that God would sent a new king to his people, a.k.a. Jesus, and Herod wanted to avoid any challenge to his throne. The second refers to the first three centuries or so of Christianity, when many believers were put to death by Rome for professing their faith.
- "Ave Maria" (4.6.7). This passage includes lines from the hymn "Ave Maria," which literally translates as "Hail Mary." The hymn is in fact a prayer that has been set to music a number of different times.
- Psalm 101 (5.1.1). The narrator indicates that Ivar sings Psalm 101, though no text from the psalm is included. This psalm has to do with using one's God-given talents in the appropriate manner.
Historical References
- John Huss (2.1.10). Emil mentions this name in passing, when talking with Emil about the history of Bohemia. Huss is a prominent figure in the Protestant Reformation, and was burned at the stake by the Catholic church.
- William Jennings Bryan (2.3.55). Lou asks Carl whether he's heard of this guy. He was a politician in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, famous at the time of the novel's publication for championing the wisdom of common people.
- Porfirio Diaz (4.1.39). Emil mentions this guy in his letters from Mexico. Diaz was the president/dictator of Mexico at the time of Emil's travels, probably in the early 20th century.