Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Symbolize means to use an object, person, or situation to represent something abstract or beyond its literal meaning within a literary work. Symbols can add depth and layers of meaning to texts.
A metaphor is when one thing is described as another thing without using "like" or "as." It creates vivid comparisons to deepen understanding.
Allegory: Allegory is a narrative where characters and events represent abstract ideas or moral qualities. It's like telling a hidden story within another story.
A motif is a recurring element (like an image, symbol, or theme) that helps develop the overall meaning or message of a literary work. It's like a recurring melody in a song that adds coherence and emphasis.