The use of allusion in Hamlet often references which kind of external material?

• A. It avoids external references entirely.
• B. It relies only on direct statements.
• C. It frequently references classical myths or historical figures to deepen themes.
• D. It uses modern references to contemporary events.

Answer: (C)

Allusion is a tool for adding depth by nodding to familiar stories outside the text. In Hamlet, these nods are often to classical myths or historical figures, and they deepen the play’s exploration of big ideas like revenge, fate, mortality, and corruption. For example, Shakespeare has Hamlet and the others draw on myths and legendary history to heighten the sense of tragedy and moral complexity—things like the Trojan War or references to great ancient figures—so the audience brings those rich associations to what’s happening on stage. This layering makes the themes feel larger and more timeless.

That’s why the best answer points to classical myths or historical figures as the source of these allusions. It’s not about avoiding external references, nor about relying only on direct statements, nor about modern events.