Symbolism !

# @ & % $

A symbol is … Something that represents something else (like a thing, a person, an idea, or a feeling)

Symbols are everywhere!

Symbols communicate meaning:

For example, when you see this symbol, what does it mean to you?

A red octagon symbolizes “STOP” even without the word!

Symbols in Literature: Represent something in addition to

their literal meaning.

Show the reader something without using words or narration. 

Events, objects, words and characters can all be symbols that writers use to stand in for something else.

Things that can be Symbols: CHARACTERS: can represent ideas

like good or evil. In the Harry Potter series, Voldemort represents pure evil.

OBJECTS: the magic rose in The Beauty and the Beast represents the passage of time.

EVENTS: a thunder and lightening storm might symbolize dramatic conflict, suspense or high emotions (remember the Gothic book covers?)

WORDS: In Harry Potter, the house name “Slytherin” calls to mind a slithery snake, a symbol for evil.