1. Symbolism A symbol is something that represents something else

2. What can be a symbol? An object Picture Written word Sound Numerals Language

3. Religious Symbols

4. Mathematical Symbols

5. Political Symbols Maple Leaf = All things Canadian Red Bars = Pacific and Atlantic Ocean (surrounding Canada) Red Bars also = English and French influences

6. Color Symbolism

7. Symbolism in Writing Symbolism is used to provide meaning to the writing beyond what is actually being described Plot and action are one level in the story; symbolism is another level

8. Why Create Symbols? Why don’t 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.

9. What Do These Mean to You?

11. Poison - Danger

13. Love

15. Olympics

17. Men’s Room

19. Peace Sign

21. International “No”

22. Example from Literature Harry Potter Could be seen as containing a lot of symbolism Example: snake representing evil. It is no coincidence that the symbol of Slytherin House is a serpent. All information and examples from: http://www.worsleyschool.net/socialarts/symbolism/page.html

23. Hunger Games Any ideas as to what might be a symbol in this novel?

25. survival, friendship, love

27. survival

29. rebellion

31. survival

32. Woods

33. survival

35. silent salute: respect, rebellion

36. Symbolism in Writing The theme is represented on a physical level –Example: A storm occurring when there is a conflict or high emotions –Example: Transition from day to night might = move from goodness to evil

37. Examples from Literature Lord of the Flies Ralph with his conch shell represents order and democracy, while Jack symbolizes savagery and anarchy. The island itself symbolizes the world in which we live, and the actions of the characters are symbolic of the way people conduct their lives