1. Short Stories Literature Terms
Symbolism & Character

2. Symbolism
Symbol: Something which stands for, means, or represents something else
Example: The Statue of Liberty is a symbol that represents the freedom America offers to immigrants

3. Symbolism
In literature, a symbol is often a tangible, or physical, object that represents a complex or abstract concept
Many objects already have “fixed” associations.
Example: The color yellow often symbolizes joy or happiness

4. Symbolism
In “Poison,” the poison in the title symbolizes ______________.

5. Characters  Character: a person in a story, poem, play, or novel
Static Characters: do not change throughout story
Dynamic Characters: change as a result of the story’s events
Flat Characters: have only one or two traits; simple
Round Characters: have many different traits; complex

6. Characterization
Characterization: the process of revealing the personality of a character
Direct Characterization: method in which a writer tells us exactly what the character is like
Indirect Characterization: method in which a writer gives us clues about a character but we have to decide for ourselves exactly what kind of person that character is

7. Direct or Indirect Characterization???
Billy Bob said, “It’s a beautiful day!”
Barbara Sue was covered in muck, her dress torn and hair disheveled.
Billy Bob thought to himself, “Barbara Sue sure looks pretty today.”
Barbara Sue stopped to help the elderly woman cross the street.
Billy Bob was kind and thoughtful.