Inter-textual Relations refers to the fact that text exists not in a vacuum but in relation to other texts. A given text may directly or indirectly refer to another text or reflect beliefs and opinions of others besides the author. A text can also
emphasize one textual voice over another.
Perhaps the most obvious example of intertextual relations are found in research-based texts such as journal articles in which the research of others is referred to overtly and embedded in the text. However, text also gives voice to other writers without
direct reference. For instance, much of Shakespeare's work makes covert references in text to other plays and writings of his time. In turn, many modern works of writing refer to and rely upon the works of Shakespeare in both idea and structure. It may be
of great advantage to the reader to have prior knowledge of these relations.
