Final answer:
Horace uses allusions to illustrate ideas, support arguments, or provide critiques by referencing recognizable figures or concepts, enriching the reader's understanding and connecting with the audience on a deeper level.
Step-by-step explanation:
Horace uses allusions of well-known people to illustrate an idea, support an argument, or provide a critique within his work. By referencing figures such as those from Greek mythology or individuals recognized for their societal roles, he creates a deeper level of understanding and connection for his audience. For instance, when he characterizes certain individuals in his Satires, he draws upon common knowledge to reinforce the virtues or vices he attributes to those characters.
Allusions serve multiple purposes in literature. They can help readers think critically about an idea by presenting a parallel or contrasting reference. It also allows the author to give strength or credibility to their ideas without having to explain the referenced concept in detail, as the audience is expected to recognize it.
A classic example of how Horace employs allusion can be found in his representation of cosmetics as deceitful, juxtaposing a 'decent' woman's appearance with the socially constructed expectations of beauty. Such allusions not only provide factual evidence for Horace's claims but also reflect the historical and cultural context, enriching the reader's experience and understanding of the text.