Understanding Symbolism in Literature

What is the definition of symbolism in literature?

• The use of characters to represent real people

• The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings different from their literal sense

• The use of dialogue to convey a story

• The use of metaphors to describe events

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CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

Which of the following is an example of a symbol in literature?

• A character's name

• A red rose representing love

• A chapter title

• A book's genre

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CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

In the context of a story, what might a storm symbolize?

• A change in weather

• A character's anger or turmoil

• A new character's arrival

• A peaceful resolution

How can the color white be interpreted symbolically in a narrative?

• As a sign of danger

• As a symbol of purity or innocence

• As a representation of wealth

• As an indication of time passing

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CCSS.RI.11-12.7

CCSS.RI.9-10.7

CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.8.7

CCSS.RL.9-10.7

Evaluate the significance of the symbol of a broken mirror in a story about identity.

• It represents a character's wealth

• It signifies the character's fragmented self-image or identity

• It indicates a change in setting

• It shows the passage of time

Tags

CCSS.RI.11-12.7

CCSS.RI.8.7

CCSS.RI.9-10.7

CCSS.RL.11-12.7

CCSS.RL.9-10.7

Why might an author choose to use symbolism in their writing?

• To make the text longer

• To add depth and layers of meaning to the narrative

• To confuse the reader

• To avoid using dialogue

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

In a story, a journey often symbolizes what?

• A literal trip

• A character's personal growth or quest for knowledge

• A change in weather

• A new character's introduction

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Analyze the use of a caged bird as a symbol in a narrative about freedom.

• It represents the character's wealth

• It symbolizes the character's entrapment and desire for freedom

• It indicates a change in setting

• It shows the passage of time

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What does the symbol of a rising sun typically represent in literature?

• The end of a journey

• A new beginning or hope

• A character's downfall

• A conflict resolution

Tags

CCSS.L.4.5

CCSS.L.5.5

CCSS.L.6.5

CCSS.L.7.5

CCSS.L.8.5

Consider the symbol of a locked door in a story. What might it signify about a character's situation?

• The character's wealth

• The character's isolation or secrets

• A change in setting

• The passage of time