Symbolism

Miss QuarantaJuly 2007

Literary Term Academy presents…

What a symbol? A symbol is a concrete item used

to represent an abstract idea. “Concrete” refers to something

that can be touched. “Abstract” refers to something

that cannot be touched.

For example… The American Flag represents

unity of the 50 nations in our country.

You can touch the flag but you can’t touch “unity.”

When is symbolism used? Symbols are used in literature,

song lyrics, film, and society. They are a tool that writers use to

make their writing more interesting and have a deeper meaning for the audience.

Symbolism in Literature Symbolism is used in Shirley

Jackson’s short stories often. In The Lottery by Shirley Jackson,

a small town continues a ridiculous tradition of stoning a townsperson that “wins” a local lottery.

Where is symbolism in this story?

The stones are used to symbolize naivety of the townspeople.

Symbolism in Film Symbolism is also used in film. In the film Castaway starring Tom

Hanks, the volleyball was used as a symbol for the need for companionship.

Tom “befriends” the volleyball and is distraught when he goes missing.

What do the following symbols mean?

Love

Peace

Also Peace!

Finding Symbols Next time you are reading, take a

deeper look at those concrete items and determine if they are a symbol for an abstract idea!