Symbolism Meanings beyond the obvious A symbol is

Symbolism Meanings beyond the obvious

A symbol is… n A symbol is an image which suggests or represents something other than itself. n In Literature, a symbol represents something about a character or their feelings. n When you understand the symbol being used, you connect its meaning to the story and understand on a deeper level.

A symbol is… n A symbol is an image which suggests or represents something other than itself. n (In other words, when you use something tangible to represent something intangible). We see symbols every day…

In literature, symbolism… n creates a direct, meaningful link between… a specific object, scene, character, or action and abstract ideas, values, persons or ways of life.

In other words…. When you use something tangible to represent something intangible “But Mr. Prater, I don’t know what those words mean!”

Tangible vs. Intangible Tangible Intangible Things that you can touch Things you cannot touch Flag Autumn leaves Eagle Peace Sign Wedding Band Water Flowers Dove Respect Affection Wishes Romance Disdain Meaning Happiness Angst Running Ego

Similes can help Use the simple simile method Intangible (something you can’t touch) “Is like a” Tangible (something you can touch) “Because” If you can compare something you can’t touch to something you can touch, you’ve just found a symbol!

For Example! n Love is like a blue stone because it is tough, yet breakable at the same time, like a blue stone. It is tough to love a blue stone Intangible Tangible

Common Symbols Let’s take a look at a few symbols that our commonly found in literature

Symbolism A river can represent the flow of life… … or its depth may represent the unknown… … the water might be purity… … or there could be dangers beneath the surface.

Symbolism A walk into a tunnel – or change from day to night – could show movement from good to evil, or that something bad is coming… A storm at a critical moment can represent the intense emotion and trouble… And dawn may show the end of conflict, the “start of a new day. ”

HOW MANY SYMBOLS MEANINGS CAN YOU IDENTIFY?

Colors n Red The symbol of love or courage. Red is the color of Valentine's Day. n White The symbol of good or innocence. Brides and angels wear white. n Black The symbol of evil. Villains in old time movies often wore black.