Inkheart

Funke utilizes literary allusion throughout Inkheart. Allusions are references to objects or topics outside of the text, which are meant to draw on a reader’s preexisting knowledge. Each chapter of Inkheart begins with a quotation from a well-known novel, usually a children’s fantasy novel. These intertextual references cue readers, particularly readers who are familiar with a range of widely celebrated literary works, to expect certain thematic features in each chapter.

Chapter 3: “Going South” begins with a quote from The Wind in the Willows about the dangers of leaving the safety of the woods (21). Journeys and adventures are major themes throughout The Wind in the Willows; characters experience excitement, triumph, and tribulation when they leave the woods. This reinforces young protagonist Meggie’s anxiety at leaving the safety of her home and hints that she will encounter a range of unexpected and exciting events on her adventure.

Literary allusion is also used to cue readers to approaching danger and adversity. Chapter 48: “The Magpie” begins with a quote from T. H. White’s The Book of Merlin: “But they woke him early with words, their cruel, bright weapons” (432). The reader is forewarned that Mortola the Magpie will be threatening, cruel, and sinister in her meeting with Meggie Folchart. Similarly, the reader is warned of deception at the beginning of Chapter 7: “What the Night Hides” through an Arabic proverb: “A thousand enemies outside the house are better than one within” (72). Capricorn, the villain, manages to locate Meggie and her father at Meggie’s great-aunt Elinor’s house. The opening proverb warns that Dustfinger—an enemy within the house, who has been pretending to be their ally—was responsible.

Literary allusions also take place directly within the text, such as in Chapter 12: “Going Further South.” Elinor Loredan applauds Meggie’s choice to bring the book featuring “people with hairy feet going on a long journey to dark places” (106). Readers who recognize Funke’s reference to The Lord of the Rings will understand the implication that Meggie, an unlikely hero—like Frodo Baggins, the protagonist of Lord of the Rings—is embarking on a terrifying mission against fearful adversaries. It is further implied through this reference that Mo, Meggie, Elinor, and to a lesser extent Dustfinger, will triumph over evil through love and loyalty.