![]() ![]() These could be because they’re common themes in the literature canon that your work is from (such as red roses representing love) or because when revenge or love are mentioned, this symbol is mentioned as well. If you’re reading a book you know is about revenge or love, look to see if any symbols pop up connected to those themes. Sometimes we can tell if something is symbolic because it means a lot to the characters (ex: Piggy’s Conch Shell from The Lord of the Flies, the White Whale of Moby Dick)Īnother way to identify symbolism is to consider the themes and messages of the work as a whole. Sometimes it’ll be described heavily in the text or a character will point it out, drawing the reader’s attention to the symbol. Sometimes the author will put the symbol directly in the title (To Kill a Mockingbird, The Scarlet Letter, Moby Dick). However, if blue is a prominent color throughout the book, that probably means the author is using it deliberately.Īs for significant symbols, those are symbols that the author features prominently. If, in a novel, one set of curtains is blue, and nothing else is blue, that probably isn’t an example of symbolism. In order to identify symbolism, it’s important to look for elements that seem to be significant or recurring in the text. Objects, characters, events… isn’t that what a story is made up of? Yep! Once again, everything can be symbolic. For example, child characters are often symbols of hope.Ĭolors: Colors can symbolize a variety of ideas, such as red symbolizing passion or white symbolizing innocence.Īnimals: Animals can symbolize a wide range of ideas, such as a lion symbolizing bravery or a snake symbolizing deceit.Įvents: Events or actions can symbolize ideas or emotions, such as a wedding symbolizing commitment. Objects: Objects can symbolize a wide range of ideas, such as a sword symbolizing power or a mirror symbolizing self-reflection.Ĭharacters: Characters can symbolize ideas or concepts. Let’s start by looking at some common symbols. However, how do we tell if something is symbolic? Identifying Symbolism It can be difficult to identify symbolism in a play or a piece of literature because almost everything can be symbolic. Symbols can be found in a variety of forms, including objects, characters, and events. It can also help express concepts that are difficult to conceptualize, like peace or faith. It is used to represent an idea, concept, or emotion, and can help to add depth and complexity to a work of literature. Symbolism is a literary device in which an object or event represents something beyond itself. (Or at least you’ll have a pretty good start.) What is Symbolism? Symbolism is not exactly the most popular thing you learn about in AP English Literature, but it’s gotten a worse reputation than it deserves! With our guide, you’ll be a symbol-spotting expert in no time. In this guide, we’ll be briefly discussing symbolism. ![]()
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