Symbolism is something that gives literature depth and dimension, providing a surface account of the narrative. In a particular literary work, symbols represent tools authors may use to put across complex ideas, emotions, and themes without stating them literally, hence giving readers a chance to deRead more
Symbolism is something that gives literature depth and dimension, providing a surface account of the narrative. In a particular literary work, symbols represent tools authors may use to put across complex ideas, emotions, and themes without stating them literally, hence giving readers a chance to derive richer interpretations. Most of the time, symbols appeal on both literal and figurative levels in a bid to increase the interest and understanding of the reader.
For instance, the green light in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” represents Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and the wider issue of the American Dream as a whole. The conch shell in William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies” is employed to symbolize the law, order, and civilization that have gradually been falling apart over the course of the novel. Symbols may also express emotions, connect characters to universal experiences, or even mirror cultural or historical settings.
It aids the writer in giving out subtle messages concerning themes such as love, death, power, and identity. It encourages one to think deeper, to find meaning. Symbolism enriches the narrative by creating a multidimensional experience beyond the face value story, making the impact of the literary work much more memorable.
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Shampa Roy in her analysis of Austen's 'Pride & Prejudice (1813)' depicts how Austen differs from the expectation of the feminine writing by including her fine understanding of society and times. Instead of creating one dimensional stereotypical characters and situations, Austen deviates --her nRead more
Shampa Roy in her analysis of Austen’s ‘Pride & Prejudice (1813)’ depicts how Austen differs from the expectation of the feminine writing by including her fine understanding of society and times. Instead of creating one dimensional stereotypical characters and situations, Austen deviates –her narrative and ironies play a significant role in her critique of 19th CE English society in terms of class, economy and gender.
Right from the very famous opening of the novel, ‘It is a truth universally acknowledged..’ Austen in a single sentence brings forth a mockery of the convergently societal view of a man and a stark reality of the match made in heaven.
Apart from marriage and gender, Austen also reflects on politics. She may have not directly given a historical account of the issues embedded in her times, B.Mangalam finds a double-edged irony with her mention of ‘real muslin’ and the depiction of charming and fun loving ‘militia officers’ – it not only reflects on the upper class taste but also the trajectory of colonial loots and oppression that the English folks seem to be mindlessly enjoying.
These are just some. There are many such ironies we find in Austen’s Pride and Prejudice that are a critique of her society and times.
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