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	December 2004				The Facts on File Dictionary of Classical and Biblical Allusions by Martin M Manser Checkmark Books, New York, 2003 Softcover 448 pp. RRP $40
		Book review The Facts on File Dictionary of Classical and Biblical Allusions reviewed by Philip Blake
			If you enjoy writing, deliver occasional speeches, preach sometimes, or even like to look behind the source and meaning of verbal allusions, this is a book for you! This volume includes some 2000 entries 'covering figures, places, and key concepts drawn from the Bible and classical mythology.' An allusion is defined as 'a reference that evokes a certain set of aspects or features of a person or a thing.' The entries are arranged in alphabetical order which makes reference very easy, and many of them have a biblical background. Usually the term is linked to its source and then shown as an example in more general usage. For instance, 'day of small things' first appears in Zechariah 4:10 when God reassures the prophet after some had scoffed at the slow beginnings of temple rebuilding. They were not to despise the day of small things. Succour We are then referred to Charlotte Bronte's Jane Eyre with the words, 'I am but the incumbent of a poor country parish, my aid must be of the humblest sort, and if you are inclined to despise the day of small things, seek some more efficient succour than such as I can offer.' As an example of a classical source, the word 'draconian' takes its origin from the harsh laws of Draco who in 621 BC drew up the first written code of justice for his fellow Athenians. Supposedly they were written in blood rather than ink and were notorious for their severity. Draco came to a premature end when he was smothered under the heaps of garments and flowers that the admiring Athenians showered on him when he visited the theatre. Today this term is frequently used about laws which people consider to be severe and outdated. This is the kind of book which will give even greater meaning to and understanding of the terms that form part of your vocabulary. It will provide a ready source of material for quiz sessions. It will make a wonderful Christmas present for your friends who consider that they 'know it all.' Although it is essentially a reference book it is the kind of work which will keep you flipping through the pages and providing enlightenment which is often amusing as well. I can recommend it as a valuable addition to your own library, your church library and your local branch of the State Library.