Symbolism and Allegory Synthesizing Sources

What is a symbol? A symbol is often an ordinary object,

event, person, or animal to which we have attached extraordinary meaning and significance.

For example, we use a rectangle piece of dyed cloth to symbolize a country. We use a picture of a skull and crossbones to represent poison or danger. We send red roses as a symbol for love.

Where do symbols come from? Symbols can be inherited. The most familiar symbols have been

inherited—meaning they’ve been handed down over time.

For example, no one knows who first associated the lion with pride and courage, but once those qualities were associated with the animal, the lion became a public symbol, one that shows up on flags, coats of arms, castle walls, etc…

Where do symbols come from? Symbols can be invented. You probably have a symbol that

represents your school. Writers often take a new object,

character, or event and make it the symbol of some human concern.

Some invented symbols in literature have become well-known public symbols such as Peter Pan, who symbolizes eternal childhood.

Why create symbols? Why don’t writers 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 water: It sends out ever-widening ripples of meaning.

Allegory: Split-Level Stories An allegory is a story in which

characters, settings, and actions stand for something beyond themselves.

Sometimes the characters and settings represent abstract ideas and moral qualities.

Sometimes the characters and situations stand for historical figures and events.

Allegories: Split-Level Stories

An allegory can be read on two levels.

Allegories can be read on a literal, straightforward meaning or for its symbolic or allegoric meaning.

Allegories are often intended to teach a moral lesson or to make a comment about goodness and vice.

Symbol Practice

A. Think about the number of symbols we’re surrounded by in everyday life. For starters, identify what the items below stand for. Then, see if you can explain the basis for the symbol—why is this symbol appropriate for what it stands for?

1. A snake2. An eagle3. Spring4. An owl5. A white flag

Allegory PracticeB. Here is a brief poem that works on two levels: a literal level and a symbolic level. A “fen” is a swampy place. What does the fen symbolize in this poem?

I May, I Might, I MustIf you will tell me why the fenappears impassable, I thenwill tell you why I think that Ican get across it if I try.--Marianne Moore

Practice with Symbolism Think of another piece of literature, a

movie, or a song that includes a distinctive symbol. Explain the ideas associated with that symbol.

Quickwrite Pride is an overriding them in “The

Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst. Generate a list of situations that might make someone feel proud. Is pride positive or negative—can it be both? Jot down your thoughts about what it means to be proud.

Vocabulary sullenly Imminent Iridescent Serene Infallibility Blighted Doggedness Reiterated Precariously mar

Making Inferences from Details

As you read “The Scarlet Ibis,” keep track of the little things—color, gesture, weather—and see what larger meanings they might point to.