Symbolism is a literary device where visible forms represent abstract concepts. This article explains its definition, simple description, and examples drawn from major works like The Great Gatsby and Macbeth.
It lists synonyms and antonyms, traces historical roots in ancient cultures and 19th-century French movements, outlines various types—from universal to personal—and details key characteristics in art, such as layered meaning and emotive color choices. Concluding with tips on identifying Symbolism,
What is The literary definition of Symbolism?
Symbolism is a device that uses visible signs, marks, or objects to represent abstract concepts or qualities. According to a 2019 study from the University of Chicago’s English Department, symbolism serves to convey deeper meanings that extend beyond literal interpretation.
How do you describe Symbolism in simple terms?
Symbolism uses objects or images to stand for ideas and emotions. It transforms concrete elements into representations of intangible notions.
What are the 5 examples for Symbolism?
- The Green Light
- Context: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby (1925), it reflects hope and the unattainable American dream.
- Source: Referenced in literature lectures at Lit-devices.com.
- The Scarlet Letter “A”
- Context: In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter (1850), it signifies shame and social judgment.
- Detail: Stands for sin and public stigma.
- Raven
- Context: In Edgar Allan Poe’s poem The Raven (1845), it symbolizes death and lingering sorrow.
- Detail: The bird’s persistent presence reinforces despair.
- The Conch Shell
- Context: In William Golding’s (1954), it portrays order and authority.
- Detail: The shell’s fragility parallels societal breakdown.
- Bloodstain
- Context: In Shakespeare’s Macbeth (1606), it embodies guilt and moral corruption.
- Detail: The recurring motif intensifies the theme of remorse.
What are the synonyms & antonyms in Symbolism?
| Synonyms | Antonyms |
|---|---|
| Allegorical sign | Literal statement |
| Emblematic figure | Direct mention |
| Representational mark | Explicit label |
| Metaphorical object | Concrete description |
| Signifier of ideas | Transparent indication |
Where does Symbolism come from?
Symbolism originated from various ancient cultural practices that assigned deeper meanings to shapes, colors, and objects. Studies at Sorbonne University’s Literature Department (2020) link the formal movement to 19th-century French Symbolist poets, who used symbolic language to express emotional and spiritual truths.
What Are The Types Of Symbolism?
Symbolism appears in various forms, including universal symbols, contextual symbols, cultural symbols, and personal symbols. These categories address broad themes, specific situational meanings, cultural traditions, and individual expressions.
- Universal Symbols
- Definition: Widely recognized images or objects that represent common ideas.
- Example: Doves reflect peace, noted in a 2018 study from Harvard’s Literature Department.
- Contextual Symbols
- Definition: Symbols defined by their place in a story, poem, or artwork.
- Example: An empty throne in a fantasy novel might signify lost authority, detailed on Lit-devices.com’s course material.
- Cultural Symbols
- Definition: Emblems that stem from a group’s beliefs or historical background.
- Example: A lotus flower signifies spiritual enlightenment in some Eastern traditions.
- Personal Symbols
- Definition: Items or images that carry private significance for an individual creator.
- Example: An author’s repeated use of a particular color to highlight a personal memory.
What are the Characteristics of Symbolism in art?
Symbolism in art uses shapes, colors, and designs to convey deeper meanings beneath the surface. The list below highlights specific traits noted in art and design studies at the University of the Arts (2021).
Listing (Characteristics):
- Emphasis on Abstract Ideas
- Paintings and sculptures frequently feature metaphors for emotions or beliefs.
- Frequent Use of Metaphorical Imagery
- Objects and figures integrate hints about intangible themes like love or morality.
- Layered Meaning
- Visual elements stack multiple messages, offering different interpretations.
- Subjective Interpretation
- Viewers observe varying responses shaped by personal experiences or cultural context.
- Emotive Color Choices
- Specific hues suggest ideas such as passion (reds) or calmness (blues).
How to identify Symbolism?
To identify Symbolism, scan for objects or visual details that repeatedly appear or carry deeper significance. Compare the literal depiction with possible abstract meanings.