Brief reference, without explanation, to a person, a text, a myth or a fact known outside the work, which carries with it the meaning of that other story.
In the Aeneid
The conqueror, grandson of Alcaeus, crossed these thresholds; this palace received him. Dare, guest, to scorn riches, make yourself worthy of the god as well, and come without harshness into the poor house.
“the conqueror, grandson of Alcaeus” names Hercules without saying his name, and the reader must recognize the hero who killed Cacus in that place. The reference links Evander's poor hut to a divine visit and gives the house honor.
Book VIII: The Shield, Evander
Each has his day, brief and without return is the span of life for all; but to extend fame through deeds, that is the work of virtue. Beneath the high walls of Troy so many sons of gods fell! With them died Sarpedon, my son; Turnus too is called by his fates, and he has reached the end of the time given to him.
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