1. Symbolism
Layers of Meaning

2. What Symbols Stand For
A symbol is often an ordinary object, event, person, or animal to which we have attached extraordinary meaning and significance.

3. We use a rectangle of dyed cloth to symbolize a country.

4. Even toddlers recognize common symbols…

5. Groups use symbols
For example…

6. What do these pictures symbolize?
We use a picture of a skull and crossbones to symbolize poison or danger.
We send red roses as a symbol of love.

7. Where Do Symbols Come From?
Symbols can be inherited or invented
The most familiar symbols have been inherited, meaning, they have been handed down over time

8. Public and Inherited Symbols
For example: no one really knows who first thought of using a lion as a symbol of power, courage and domination
Once these qualities were associated with the animal, images of lions appeared on flags, banners, coats of arms and castle walls
The lion became a public symbol that shows up in art and literature, even today!
Can you think of some examples of how lions are used as a symbol of courage and power?

9. Five linked rings symbolize the Olympics
People through out history have endowed ordinary objects with meanings far beyond their simple meaning.
Five linked rings symbolize the Olympics
A crown symbolizes royalty

10. Invented Symbols
Writers often take a new object, character, or event and make it the embodiment of some human concern.
Some invented symbols in literature have become so widely known that they often have gained the status of public symbols.
Symbols can also be invented.
What is the symbol for
our school?
For example: Peter Pan is a symbol for eternal childhood

11. Why Create Symbols?
You may ask why writers don’t just come right out and say what they mean.
Symbols allow writers to suggest layers and layers of meaning-possibilities that a simple, literal statement could never convey.
A symbol is like a pebble cast into a pond: It sends out ever widening ripples of meaning

12. We use symbols when texting to represent larger thoughts…

13. Color often symbolize moods..

14. What might these colors symbolize?

15. How do I know if it’s a symbol?
Repeat appearance
Seem to be connected with a character or event
Author spend long time on description

16. Examples of Symbolism
Now we will view several symbols. Please follow your guided notes. What do you think each image symbolizes?

25. How about a pink ribbon?

26. What’s the diff?

27. Which would you rather receive?

28. Seasons can be used as symbols

29. Objects can hold meaning too …