Symbolism

Meaning beyond the obvious or when Meaning beyond the obvious or when something stands for or represents something stands for or represents

something it is notsomething it is not

A symbol is… A symbol is an image which suggests or represents

something other than itself. (In other words, when you use something tangible to

represent something intangible) . We see symbols every day…

Lightbulb

What could this object represent? Explain.

A rose

What could a rose represent? Explain.

Lighthouse in a storm

Think of what a lighthouse could represent. Explain.

Spider in a web

And this would represent. . .

Apple pie

What could apple pie represent? Explain.

Bees in a beehive

What qualities to bees in a beehive have? What could that represent or symbolize?

Sunrise or sunset

Think of what sunrise or sunset could symbolize.

HOW MANY SYMBOLS MEANINGS CAN YOU IDENTIFY?

One example of symbolism is. . .

When you use something tangible (an object) to represent something intangible

(like and idea, feeling, or concept).

Tangible vs. Intangible

TangibleTangibleThings that you can touchThings that you can touch

FlagFlag

Autumn leavesAutumn leaves

EagleEagle

Peace SignPeace Sign

Wedding BandWedding Band

WaterWater

FlowersFlowers

DoveDove

IntangibleThings you cannot touchThings you cannot touch

RespectAffectionWishes

RomanceDisdainMeaning

HappinessAngst

RunningEgo

Explain how each intangible object is represented by the tangible object.

Hate Stone

Leadership Star

Envy Monster

Obstacle Mountain

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.”

Symbolism

In Poe’s “Telltale Heart,” the sound of the beating heart represents the man’s guilt… …a character’s

name may tell you something about them, in “The Lottery” Mr. Graves has authority over the killing…… and a character’s

appearance can be symbolic – in Cask of Amontillado, Fortunato wears a fool’s costume – and he is, in fact, a fool for trusting the narrator.

What kind of image would symbolize you?

Create a colorful symbol that represents you and/or your ideals or something about you.

On the back of your paper, explain how the object represents you. Make sure your name is on your paper.