Symbolism acts as a powerful literary device, using symbols to communicate hidden meanings and messages in stories. In literature, a symbol can be a word, character, object, or concept that represents a larger idea or theme. When done effectively, symbolism adds layers of meaning to a story, inviting readers to engage more deeply with the text. This article will explore notable examples of symbolism in literature across various genres, showcasing how authors use symbols to enrich their works.
Table of Contents
Common Types of Symbols
Objects as Symbols
One of the clearest ways writers convey symbolism is through objects. Items in a story can carry meanings beyond their physical presence. For instance, in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm,” the farmhouse symbolizes the oppressive nature of the ruling class. The very building where the pigs live represents the corruption of power and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals. As the pigs grow more like the humans they overthrew, the farmhouse stands as a reminder of the ongoing cycle of tyranny.
Colors as Symbols
Colors often represent emotions, themes, or ideas. In “The Great Gatsby” by American novelist and essayist F. Scott Fitzgerald, the color green symbolizes Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and desires. The green light near Daisy Buchanan’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s longing and dream of a future with her. This color not only signifies wealth and desire but also highlights the themes of longing and the American Dream’s elusive nature.
Nature as Symbolism
In literature, nature frequently embodies symbols that connect characters to themes. In Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper,” the wallpaper itself becomes a symbol of the protagonist’s mental deterioration and the constraints imposed on women. The oppressive yellow wallpaper reflects the restrictions of societal norms and the struggle for self-identity. As the narrator descends into madness, the wallpaper symbolizes both her confinement and the fight for personal freedom.
Characters as Symbols
Archetypal Symbolism
Many characters in literature serve as archetypes and symbols working to represent broader human experiences. Consider the character Atticus Finch from Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” as an example. Atticus symbolizes morality and justice, serving as a moral compass in a society steeped in racism and bias. His commitment to doing what is right, despite societal pressure, embodies the struggle for human rights and ethical integrity.
The Byronic Hero
Another interesting character symbol is the Byronic hero. This archetype appears in various works, showcasing a complex character with a troubled past and intense passions. A prime example is Heathcliff in Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights.” Heathcliff symbolizes the destructive nature of revenge and obsession. His actions illustrate how personal trauma can manifest in bitterness and a longing for vengeance, ultimately leading to his downfall.
Themes Represented through Symbolism
The Journey and Quest
Many narratives use symbols to represent the journey or quest of the protagonist. In J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic “The Lord of the Rings,” the One Ring stands as an intense symbol representing both absolute power and relentless corruption. The quest to destroy the Ring reflects the broader theme of good versus evil and the internal struggles associated with temptation and sacrifice. The Ring becomes a representation of the burdens of leadership and the lengths individuals will go to protect those they love.
The Circle of Life
Symbolism often captures the inevitability of life and death. In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” Yorick’s skull represents mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The moment when Hamlet holds the skull during the graveyard scene symbolizes the ultimate truth that every individual, regardless of status or wealth, meets the same fate. This potent reflection on death prompts deep meditation on existence and the value of life.
Cultural Symbols
National Symbols
Cultural symbols often emerge in literature to represent national identity or struggles. In Khaled Hosseini’s novel “The Kite Runner,” the kite symbolizes both freedom and the complex relationship between the protagonist and his childhood friend, Hassan. The act of kite flying becomes a representation of joy, bravery, and the pain of betrayal, ultimately encapsulating the protagonist’s journey toward redemption.
Religious Symbols
Religious symbols abound in the literary world, imparting significant messages about faith and morality. In “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck, the character of Jim Casy symbolizes Christ-like sacrifice. His transformation from a preacher to a voice for social justice underscores themes of community and sacrifice, linking the struggles of the Joad family to broader moral questions about humanity.
Modern Examples of Symbolism
Digital Detritus
In contemporary literature, symbols can take on new forms. In Ernest Cline’s “Ready Player One,” the OASIS virtual reality platform symbolizes escapism in an increasingly bleak world. The virtual landscape reflects society’s disconnection from reality, portraying how technology can both connect and isolate individuals. This symbol speaks to modern anxieties surrounding digital life and its impact on authentic human connections.
Feminist Symbols
Modern feminist literature often employs symbolism to critique societal norms and advocate for women’s rights. In Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale,” the red color of the handmaids’ uniform symbolizes oppression and fertility. It represents the control exerted over women’s bodies in the dystopian society of Gilead, where women are stripped of autonomy. The stark uniforms become a powerful visual motif that confronts viewers with the stark realities of gender inequality.
Historical Context and Symbolism
The Great War
In literature reflecting historical events, symbols often emerge as a means to convey the complexities of war and struggle. In Erich Maria Remarque’s “All Quiet on the Western Front,” the beetle symbolizes the dehumanization and destruction of war. The image of dead beetles scattered near trenches calls to mind ruined innocence and the deep scars left by modern warfare.
The American Dream
In works exploring the American Dream, symbolism often surfaces to critique its viability. In “Death of a Salesman,” authored by Arthur Miller, Willy Loman’s seeds represent his hope for growth, success, and legacy. The act of planting seeds symbolizes Willy’s longing to cultivate something meaningful in life, contrasting sharply with his perceived failures and ultimately highlighting the elusive nature of the American Dream.
Final Thoughts
Exploring symbolism in literature not only enhances understanding of the text but also reveals the rich tapestry of human experience it seeks to depict. By examining the roles and meanings of various symbols, readers can deepen their appreciation for the intricate connections between storytelling and the messages authors strive to convey. Symbolism invites readers into a world of contemplation and opens the door to personal interpretation, making literature a dynamic and engaging form of art.
Additional Information
Symbolism in literature often holds deeper meanings that can illuminate a reader’s understanding of a work.
- The Green Light in “The Great Gatsby”: This seemingly simple green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and the broader American Dream itself. As the story unfolds, the green light becomes a representation of hope tinged with despair.
- The Red Room in “Jane Eyre”: The Red Room symbolizes both fear and confinement for Jane. It’s where she faces her isolation, and its vibrant color foreshadows her passionate and tumultuous future.
- Moby Dick’s Whiteness: The white whale serves as a complex symbol of the unknown, combining ideas of purity and chaos. Ahab’s obsession with Moby Dick reflects humanity’s pursuit of understanding and dominance over nature.
- The Mockingbird in “To Kill a Mockingbird”: The title’s mockingbird symbolizes innocence and the idea that it is a sin to harm those who do no wrong. Tom Robinson and Boo Radley are symbolic of the mockingbird, representing innocence and undeserved suffering.
- Doctor T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes in “The Great Gatsby”: These eyes symbolize the idea of an all-seeing moral authority. They watch over the events of the novel, representing the emptiness of the American Dream and the moral decay of society.
- The Symbols of Seasons: In many literary works, changing seasons parallels a character’s emotional journey. For example, the arrival of spring often represents renewal and hope, while winter can symbolize despair or the conclusion of a cycle.
- The Conch Shell Symbolism in “Lord of the Flies”: This symbol represents civilization and order amidst chaos. As the narrative unfolds, the conch’s fading authority signals the breakdown of social order between the boys.
- The Forest in “The Scarlet Letter”: The forest serves as a complex symbol of freedom and nature’s wildness. It is a place where characters often confront their true selves, away from societal judgment.
- The Number Three: Frequently appearing in literature, the number three often signifies completeness or a cycle. From the three witches in “Macbeth” to the three trials faced by heroes in many mythologies, it’s a potent symbol of balance and fate.
- The Color Blue: Frequently linked to strength and steadiness, blue in literature can express calmness or sorrow. Characters grappling with loss or introspection are frequently associated with this color.
These examples show just how rich and layered symbolism can be, inviting readers to dig deeper into the text.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to Examples Of Symbolism In Literature
Q. What is symbolism in literature?
A. Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. In literature, symbols can be objects, characters, or colors that convey deeper meanings than their literal sense.
Q. Can you give an example of symbolism in “The Great Gatsby”?
A. In “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the green light represents Gatsby’s hopes and dreams for the future, reflecting his longing for Daisy and the American Dream.
Q. What does the conch shell symbolize in “Lord of the Flies”?
A. In “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding, the conch shell symbolizes civilization and order. When it loses its power, it reflects the breakdown of society among the boys.
Q. How is the mockingbird used as a symbol in “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
A. In Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the mockingbird symbolizes innocence and goodness. Killing one is considered a sin because they do no harm and only provide beauty through their song.
Q. What does the color red symbolize in “The Scarlet Letter”?
A. In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Scarlet Letter,” the color red symbolizes sin, passion, and the severity of judgment. Hester Prynne’s scarlet letter ‘A’ is a constant reminder of her transgression.
Q. How does the rose symbolize love in literature?
A. In various literary works, a rose typically symbolizes love and beauty. Its thorns represent the difficulties that often accompany romantic relationships.
Q. What is the significance of water as a symbol in “The Old Man and the Sea”?
A. In Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea,” water serves as a symbol of life, struggle, and the connection between man and nature. The sea can be both nurturing and destructive.
Q. What role does the black symbol of the veil play in “The Minister’s Black Veil”?
A. In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Minister’s Black Veil,” the black veil symbolizes hidden sins and the idea that everyone has something to conceal. It creates a barrier between the minister and his congregation.
Q. What does the journey symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
A. In Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist,” the journey symbolizes self-discovery and the quest for one’s legend. It emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams and the lessons learned along the way.
Q. How is the green-eyed monster used as a symbol in “Othello”?
A. In Shakespeare’s “Othello,” jealousy is often referred to as the green-eyed monster. It symbolizes the destructive power of envy and its ability to corrupt relationships and lead to tragedy.
Conclusion
Symbolism in literature creates layers of meaning within stories, drawing readers closer to characters and themes through stronger emotional connections. By using objects, colors, or actions as symbols, authors invite us to look beyond the surface and uncover hidden messages. Understanding these symbols can enhance our reading experience and spark discussions about the text. So, the next time you pick up a book, keep an eye out for the symbols that bring the story to life. Happy reading!
