Symbolism and Allegory

[End of Section] A symbol is an ordinary object, event, person, or animal to which we have attached a special meaning. What Is a Symbol?

Public symbols have been inherited, or handed down over time show up in art and literature Where Do We Get Symbols? are widely known Note

[End of Section] Invented symbols come about when writers make a character, object, or event stand for some human concern sometimes become well known and gain the status of public symbol Where Do We Get Symbols?

Writers use symbols to suggest layers of meaning that a simple, literal statement could never convey speak more powerfully to the reader’s emotions and imagination make their stories rich and memorable Symbols in Literature

Allegory—a story in which characters, setting, and actions stand for something beyond themselves, such as abstract ideas moral qualities historical figures or events Allegory

Allegories can be read on two levels: literal and symbolicliteral and symbolic are often intended to teach a moral lesson or make a comment about goodness and vice Allegory

Characters and places in allegories often have names that reveal their symbolic significance: CharactersPlaces Death Vanity Good Deeds Ignorance Celestial City Vanity Fair Hill of Difficulty Valley of Fear Allegory