SYMBOLISM DIVIDE YOUR PAPER What is symbolism What

SYMBOLISM

DIVIDE YOUR PAPER: What is symbolism? What are the two types of symbolism? How do I find symbolism in my reading? Why do authors use symbolism?

WHAT SYMBOLS STAND FOR A symbol is often an ordinary object, event, person, or animal to which we have attached deeper meaning and significance. http: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=x 2 m_hw. Dlntw

SYMBOLS AND SYMBOLISM A symbol is anything that hints at something else, usually something abstract, such as and idea or belief. A literary symbol is an object, a person, a situation, or an action that has a literal meaning in a story but suggests or represents other meanings.

TWO TYPES OF SYMBOLS General �A general symbol is universal in its meaning. Even if a general symbol were removed from a work of literature, it would still suggest a larger meaning. �Ex: Rose

PEOPLE THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE ENDOWED ORDINARY OBJECTS WITH MEANINGS FAR BEYOND THEIR SIMPLE MEANING: A crown symbolizes royalty An olive branch symbolizes peace Five linked rings symbolize the Olympics

WHAT ARE THE CHARACTERISTICS OF A GENERAL SYMBOL? No one really knows who first thought of using a lion as a symbol of power, courage, and domination But, once these qualities were associated with the animal, images of lions appeared on flags, banners, coats of arms and castle walls

TWO TYPES OF SYMBOLS 2. Specific �A specific symbol is not universal in its meaning. It acquires a specific meaning based on how it relates to the content of a novel, poem, etc. The symbol’s significance exists only within the context created by the author.

WHAT DOES THE SCORPION REPRESENT? Alacran “People Fierce in Durango are called Scorpions because there are so many of them scurrying around. ” Is this a general or specific symbol?

HOW DO I FIND SYMBOLS IN READING? 1. You have found a symbol if the object: o o o Appears repeatedly, Has an unusual quality Doesn’t appear literally in the story.

WHY CREATE SYMBOLS? You may ask why writers don’t just come right out and say what they mean. Symbols allow writers to use vivid vocabulary. It is a way for authors to use figurative language.

Your Turn: 1. What object could symbolize your personality? Write one paragraph explaining how this object is like you. Think back to the clip that shows Shrek explaining how he is like an onion. 2. What symbols have we seen in The House of the Scorpion so far? What could they mean? 3. What symbols could represent Matt? Think of some character traits we have mentioned about our protagonist, then decide on a symbol for him. Explain why you chose this object.