Examples Of Allusions In Pleasantville

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Ross used allusion to many Bible references throughout Pleasantville, this is the best depiction of change as it shows old and new values. The Tree of knowledge is a key aspect which is located in Lovers Lane. In the scene, Margaret takes the apple from the tree and hands it to David as a symbol, not of temptation but of knowledge and with this newly found knowledge comes suffering. The Painting ‘Masaccio’s Expulsion from Eden’ is a perfect representation of the idea that with knowledge comes suffering as it depicts Adam and Eve walking out of the Garden of Eden naked and covering up because they know they are vulnerable. This painting is also one shown in the film when Bud gave Bill the book of paintings which gave him access to a newly found passion for art. …show more content…
After Margaret took the apple came the downpour of rain and the rainbow which are alluded to from the bible (Noah’s Ark). This is a representation of washing away old values and the coloured people of Pleasantville see it as a beacon of hope unlike the citizens whom are in black and white view this rainbow as a symbol of destruction and to fear the coming revolution. Another allusion Ross used was the story of Moses and the burning bush, where Moses saw a bush which was on fire, God appeared and said for Moses to be the leader of the Israelites and take them away from being slaves in Egypt to serve God in the Promised Land. This is shown in the film when Betty discovers her sexual awakening after Mary Sue explained what happens down in Lovers Lane, after this is shown a large flame and the tree in the front yard burning. This shows change in the attitudes and connection to the bible which provides the audience with plausible references from a widely known source, especially in regards to the Garden of Eden which conveys the ideas of knowledge, change, suffering and
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