1. Evoking Rich Connotations:
* Shared Cultural Understanding: Myths and works of art often carry a wealth of pre-existing meanings, symbols, and interpretations that are shared by a large audience. By referencing them, the author taps into this collective cultural understanding, instantly evoking a range of emotions and associations in the reader.
* Creating Layers of Meaning: This pre-existing meaning can then be used to create deeper layers of meaning within the literary work. The author can either reinforce or subvert these expectations, prompting the reader to reconsider their understanding of the original myth or work of art.
2. Establishing a Framework:
* Setting the Tone and Atmosphere: The title can set the tone for the entire piece, suggesting the overall mood, themes, and style. A title referencing a tragic myth, for example, might suggest a work dealing with suffering and loss.
* Providing Context: By referencing a specific myth or work of art, the author can establish a context for the story, providing clues to the themes, characters, and settings that will be explored.
3. Engaging the Reader's Imagination:
* Intriguing the Reader: A title that references a known myth or work of art can be intriguing and thought-provoking, piquing the reader's curiosity and making them want to learn more.
* Playing with Expectations: The author can create a sense of playful tension by subverting expectations or playing with the reader's knowledge of the original myth or work of art.
4. Highlighting Themes:
* Direct Connections: The title can directly connect the literary work to the themes and motifs explored within the original myth or work of art, providing a clear indication of the central concerns of the piece.
* Symbolism and Allusion: The title can act as a symbol or an allusion, hinting at deeper meanings and themes that will be explored throughout the work.
Examples:
* "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot: References a myth from the Arthurian legend, suggesting a sense of desolation and spiritual emptiness.
* "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles: The title directly names the protagonist, instantly associating the play with the famous Greek myth of Oedipus.
* "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: The title alludes to a character in "This Side of Paradise," Fitzgerald's first novel, suggesting a connection between Gatsby and the themes of wealth, dreams, and the American Dream.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of referencing a known myth or work of art in a title depends on the author's skill and intention. A well-chosen reference can enhance the literary work's impact, enrich its meaning, and engage the reader on a deeper level.