Symbolism

 

Symbolism is defined by “expressing the intangible and invisible means by means of visible and sensuous representations.” In modern literature there are countless examples of symbolism as writers are inspired to express many ideas rather than one. Futhermore, readers are encouraged to practice ambiguity when they discover symbolic interpretations. Basic things such as color can contain symbolic meaning such as Red for death, danger, and panic whilst Green represents wealth, nourishment, and pleasure. Thus narrative’s consist wholly of symbols, motifs, and underlying themes.

 

We see examples of symbolism in Milton’s “Paradise Lost”

 

Milton uses “Brightness and Light” in symbolic representations of God in his epic poem.

 

“If thou beest he; But O how fall’n! how chang’d

From him, who in the happy Realms of Light [ 85 ]

Cloth’d with transcendent brightness didst out-shine

Myriads though bright: If he Whom mutual league,

United thoughts and counsels, equal hope

And hazard in the Glorious Enterprize,

Joynd with me once, now misery hath joynd [ 90 ]

In equal ruin: into what Pit thou seest

From what highth fall’n, so much the stronger prov’d

He with his Thunder: and till then who knew

The force of those dire Arms? yet not for those”

 

References:

https://www.britannica.com/art/Symbolism-literary-and-artistic-movement