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In Fahrenheit 451, what are some examples of allusions and authors?

In Fahrenheit 451, Bradbury makes reference to a lot of other books and authors. Here are a few examples:


  • There is a reference to the Oxford Martyrs, Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley, who were burned for heresy in 1555. In fact, Latimer's words are quoted by the woman who is burned in Part One.

  • In Beatty's speech to Montag, in which he explains and justifies the fireman system, Bradbury refers to two other important works: Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe and Little Black Sambo by Helen Bannerman.

  • Just before Montag kills Beatty, there is a reference to Shakespeare, specifically to his Julius Caesar:


"There is no terror, Cassius, in your threats, for I am arm'd so strong in honesty that they pass by me as an idle wind, which I respect not!"



  • Shakespeare himself is mentioned by Montag when he calls Faber for the first time. Montag also mentions Plato, the philosopher, in this call.

  • Matthew Arnold's poem, "Dover Beach," also features in the book. It is read out by Montag and makes one of Mildred's friends cry.

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