Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Herman Melville was an American author best known for his novel "Moby-Dick." His works often explore themes of human nature, morality, and the complexities of life.
Symbolism is the use of objects, characters, or events to represent deeper meanings or ideas in literature. It adds layers of depth and enhances the overall message conveyed by the author.
Allegory: Allegory is a narrative technique where characters and events represent abstract ideas or moral qualities. It allows authors to convey complex concepts in a more accessible way.
Existentialism: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that explores individual existence, freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life. Many of Melville's works touch upon existentialist themes.