What is a key reason to include allusions in a literary work?

A key reason to include allusions in a literary work is to enhance the meaning of the literary work. An allusion is a reference to a well-known person, place, or thing existing outside of the literary work. For example, a modern author might include an allusion to Greek Mythology or Shakespeare. In doing so, the author assumes the reader would be able to recognize the allusion and understand its importance. If an author writing a love story includes an allusion to Romeo and Juliet, the author might be hinting to the reader that this love story will not have a happy ending. Therefore, allusions enhance the meaning of a literary work and allow for the reader to gain a deeper understanding of the literary work's plot, characters, and themes.