Symbolism
Definition
Symbolism is when an object, person, situation, or action represents something beyond its literal meaning. It adds depth and layers of meaning to a literary work.
Related terms
Allegory: A story or poem in which characters and events represent abstract qualities or ideas.
Motif: A recurring symbol or theme throughout a literary work.
Metaphor/Simile/Personification/Allusion/Irony/Metonymy/Synecdoche/Hyperbole/Oxymoron: Different types of figurative language that can be used to create symbolic meaning in a text.
"Symbolism" appears in:
Subjects (4)
AP Art History
AP English Literature
AP European History
AP Spanish Literature
Study guides (2)
AP English Language - 1.1 Identifying the purpose and intended audience of a text
AP English Language - 2.2 Building an argument with relevant and strategic evidence
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
Stay Connected
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
About Us
About Fiveable
Blog
Careers
Code of Conduct
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.