While these objects don’t always carry symbolic meaning in a text, these are some of the most common symbols employed in literature. Symbolism is smartly woven into the very fabric of literature; it’s near impossible to find a well-known literary piece, especially in fiction, that doesn’t bear any symbols in it. When used properly, it can enhance a piece of writing and provide further insight to the reader. Select the correct definition of the word derided based on the context of the following line from James And so, everything I said about adding meaning to a novel, in the form of a strong theme, applies to adding symbolic meaning to fiction. Generally, the term Symbolism is the use of Symbols to indicate some qualities, thoughts, ideas and miseries by giving them some symbolic interpretation or meaning that are different from their literal meaning. View Test Prep - Symbolism in Fiction-Mastery Test.txt from ENGLISH 10 at Epic Charter School. So, next time you’re reading a book, make sure to keep an eye out for interesting symbols the author may have hidden inside the text! A symbol most commonly presents itself as a word, a figure of speech, an event or a character. Together, let’s enjoy some examples of symbolism in literature. Symbolist artists sought to express A symbol can take the form of a color, for example, red for passion or danger. Symbolism is a literary device that uses symbols, be they words, people, marks, locations, or abstract ideas to represent something beyond the literal meaning. Symbolism is a figure of speech that is used when an author wants to create a certain mood or emotion in a work of literature. Becoming familiar with the following symbols can help deepen your reading (or writing) experience. It illuminates the narrative, gives the reader something extra to think about as you sprinkle the story with symbols. Symbolism can take various forms. There are a number of different ways a symbol might appear in a piece of literature, suggesting an array of different meanings. In science fiction and fantasy, it’s especially important that writers take the time to craft rich, believable symbols. Symbolism can be an object, person, situation, event or action that has a deeper meaning in the overall context beyond a surface understanding. Symbolism, a loosely organized literary and artistic movement that originated with a group of French poets in the late 19th century, spread to painting and the theatre, and influenced the European and American literatures of the 20th century to varying degrees. Types of Symbols. Overwhelming the reader with an endless stream of metaphors can lead to dense and uninviting passages that feel less intended to deliver a story and more to satisfy the writer’s own sense of cleverness. Importance of Symbols and Symbolism in Literature. 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