Common Knowledge

Common Knowledge Synopsis

An aptly titled book that presents, from a staggering range of fields (e.g., mythology, religion, literature, history), names that `reasonably well-educated persons might be expected to know.' . . . Included are figures who are common subjects or who have made their way into catch phrases or character types (e.g., Lothario). A good source for home or public libraries.'

Choice

In his introduction, compiler Grote apologizes `to the Dickensians, the Janeites, the Proustians, the Holmesians, and the Shakesperians' for the brevity of his entries, sure to disappoint these die-hard fans of a single author. He need not, however, apologize to the general readers for whom his book is intended as a source for learning the significance of more than 4,000 names they might encounter. They are the names of historical persons, biblical personages, and mythical and literary characters. The entries are brief but adequately explain the person's origins in fact or literature. Wilson Library Bulletin

This guide to common literary allusions is designed as a companion volume for the general reader. Grote has assembled the fundamental names in mythology, literature, religion, history, and popular culture as a reference for understanding their use in most general literature. The names included are those most likely to be encountered by the general reader, such as melancholy as Hamlet, or Phoenix-like. The entries are drawn primarily from literature, the Bible, and Greek and Roman mythology; a number of historical figures and names of significant historical events have also been included.