What does the term "allusion" refer to in literature?

The term "allusion" in literature refers to a reference to a well-known person, place, event, or work of art, which enriches the text by establishing a connection with the reader's existing knowledge and cultural context. When an author includes an allusion, it can deepen the meaning of the work and evoke specific emotions or ideas that resonate with the audience. For example, if a character in a novel is compared to a famous historical figure, this comparison draws upon widely recognized traits or narratives associated with that figure, enhancing the character's portrayal.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of an allusion. A fictional character's inner thoughts pertain to internal monologue or stream of consciousness. A type of poetic meter refers to the rhythmic structure of a poem, which is unrelated to reference-making. A moment of character growth reflects a transformation or development within a character's journey, which again does not align with the concept of making references to external entities.