Dictionary of Historical Allusions and Eponyms

By Dorothy Auchter

Book Overview

Jezebel is an example of an eponym, a person whose name has evolved into a common noun or verb. In addition to eponyms, the English language is peppered with historical allusions that have become disassociated from their original context. For example, the phrase mad as a hatter refers to the dementia suffered by Victorian hatmakers, who were poisoned by the mercury used in their craft.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: B006Z2DSA6
• ISBN13: 9780874369502
• Release Date: June 1998
• Publisher: ABC-CLIO
• Length: 306 Pages
• Weight: 1.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 7.3" x 10.3"

Customer Reviews

Wonderful, Great coffee table book

Horrible title, outstanding book. I didn't expect that it would be so fun to read. It has an appeal beyond academics. This is very rare. This was an informative and very fun read. Recommend it highly...after you graduate the only text book you can keep and actually use. Even your mother will like this book.