Allegory vs. Symbolism: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 3, 2023
"Allegory" is a narrative where characters and events represent abstract ideas, while "Symbolism" uses specific symbols to convey deeper meanings.
Key Differences
"Allegory" and "Symbolism" are both literary devices used to convey deeper meanings, but they function differently.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
"Allegory" operates on a broader scale, often encompassing the entirety of a narrative, with characters, events, and settings working together to express a larger message or moral lesson. Think of it as a prolonged metaphor where everything in the story stands for something else. On the other hand, "Symbolism" tends to be more specific. It employs individual symbols—whether objects, characters, or events—to represent larger ideas or concepts within a story.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
While an "Allegory" might use a whole tale to depict the battle between good and evil, "Symbolism" could use a lone object, like a black crow, to signify impending doom.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Furthermore, "Allegory" is typically more deliberate in its intention to convey a particular message, whereas "Symbolism" can be open to interpretation, allowing readers to derive their own meanings from the symbols presented.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Representation
Characters/events/settings signify deeper meanings
Objects/characters/events represent larger ideas
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Interpretation
Often has a clear intended message
Can be open to reader's interpretation
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Function
Convey abstract ideas through narrative
Add depth and layers to a story
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Allegory and Symbolism Definitions
Allegory
A story, poem, or image that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning.
George Orwell's Animal Farm is an allegory about the dangers of totalitarianism.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
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Symbolism
An artistic and poetic movement emphasizing inner meaning over realistic representation.
The red rose often carries the symbolism of love and passion.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 20, 2023
Allegory
An extended metaphor where the components of the story have a deeper significance.
The Lord of the Flies serves as an allegory of the inherent evil in human nature.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Symbolism
The underlying meanings attributed to symbols used.
The raven in Poe's poem holds the symbolism of death and melancholy.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Allegory
A narrative in which abstract ideas are personified.
In Pilgrim’s Progress, the protagonist's journey is an allegory of the Christian's journey to salvation.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 20, 2023
Symbolism
The use of symbols to signify deeper meanings or qualities.
The dove is often used in literature as a symbolism of peace.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
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Allegory
A symbolic representation.
The allegory of the cave in Plato's writings represents the pursuit of knowledge.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
Symbolism
The practice of representing things by symbols.
The heart symbol has the symbolism of love and emotion.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
Allegory
The representation of abstract ideas or principles by characters, figures, or events in narrative, dramatic, or pictorial form.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
The practice of representing things by means of symbols or of attributing symbolic meanings or significance to objects, events, or relationships.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A story, picture, or play employing such representation. John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and Herman Melville's Moby-Dick are allegories.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A symbolic representation
The blindfolded figure with scales is an allegory of justice.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
(rhetoric) A narrative in which a character, place, or event is used to deliver a broader message about real-world issues and occurrences.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
Revelation or suggestion of intangible conditions or truths by artistic invention.
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Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A picture, book, or other form of communication using such representation.
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Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
Symbolism The movement, theory, or practice of the late 19th-century Symbolists.
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Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A symbolic representation which can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, usually a moral or political one.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
Representation of a concept through symbols or underlying meanings of objects or qualities.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A category that retains some of the structure of the category of binary relations between sets, representing a high-level generalisation of that category.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A figurative sentence or discourse, in which the principal subject is described by another subject resembling it in its properties and circumstances. The real subject is thus kept out of view, and we are left to collect the intentions of the writer or speaker by the resemblance of the secondary to the primary subject.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
The act of symbolizing, or the state of being symbolized; as, symbolism in Christian art is the representation of truth, virtues, vices, etc., by emblematic colors, signs, and forms.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A figure representation which has a meaning beyond notion directly conveyed by the object painted or sculptured.
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Oct 13, 2023
Symbolism
The practice of using symbols, or the system of notation developed thereby.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
An expressive style that uses fictional characters and events to describe some subject by suggestive resemblances; an extended metaphor
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Oct 13, 2023
Allegory
A work that can be decoded to unveil a moral, political, or philosophical depth.
The Chronicles of Narnia are often interpreted as an allegory of Christian faith.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 20, 2023
Symbolism
An artistic movement in the late 19th century that tried to express abstract or mystical ideas through the symbolic use of images
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
Are all allegories symbolic?
Yes, allegories inherently use symbols to convey deeper meanings.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Is allegory limited to literature?
No, allegory can be found in art, music, and other forms of expression.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Are allegorical meanings always obvious?
Not always. Some allegories are more subtle and open to interpretation.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Can a symbol be an allegory?
Not exactly. While symbols convey deeper meanings, they don't encompass an entire narrative like an allegory.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Can one story contain both allegory and symbolism?
Absolutely. A story can be allegorical in nature and still contain individual symbols.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Why is symbolism used in writing?
Symbolism adds depth, layers, and can evoke emotions or thoughts in the reader.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Does symbolism have a universal meaning?
Some symbols carry universal meanings, but interpretation can vary by culture or individual.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
Are fables and parables forms of allegory?
Yes, both fables and parables are types of allegories that convey moral lessons.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Do all cultures interpret symbols the same way?
No, symbolism can vary widely across different cultures.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Can symbols change meaning over time?
Yes, the interpretation of symbols can evolve based on cultural or societal shifts.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Is symbolism always intentional?
While often intentional, readers or viewers may interpret unintended symbolism.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Is allegory always serious in tone?
No, allegory can be used in comedic or light-hearted contexts as well.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
Is allegory used in modern literature?
Yes, allegory remains a powerful tool in both classic and contemporary works.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
What's an example of a common symbol in literature?
The journey is a frequent symbol, often symbolizing personal growth or change.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
How can I identify symbolism in a story?
Look for recurring objects, characters, or events that seem to carry a deeper significance.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Can real-world events be used as symbols?
Yes, real-world events can be imbued with symbolism, especially in allegorical or symbolic retellings.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Is understanding allegory and symbolism essential to enjoy literature?
While it can enhance understanding, many works can be enjoyed without deciphering their allegorical or symbolic elements.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
Why are allegory and symbolism important in literature?
They allow authors to convey deeper meanings, enrich narratives, and engage readers on multiple levels.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
Can allegory be found in film?
Absolutely, many films use allegory to convey deeper meanings or commentaries.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Can an entire character be an allegory?
Yes, characters can represent larger ideas or concepts in an allegorical narrative.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
