Classical literature is filled with biblical allusions.

Moby Dick, by Herman Melville, begins with the famous words “Call me Ishmael.” The obvious reference to the biblical character Ishmael, whose younger brother Isaac was favored.

Another example of a biblical allusion in classical literature is found in Hamlet. On Thursday, April 8, at Mass, the Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 8. Consider the similarities found in Psalm 8 and in Hamlet’s speech in this article in Wikipedia.

Given the obvious similarities, scholars have argued that Shakespeare may have directly used Psalm 8 as a basis for writing this speech. And even if he had not done so directly, his wide knowledge of classical literature and the Bible would have certainly influenced him.

As we go about our reading, and our lives in general, let us be aware of how much our Bible does influence our culture and lives.