Here's a breakdown:
* Symbol: A concrete object, person, place, or action that represents an abstract idea or concept.
* Literal meaning: The object or action's straightforward meaning.
* Symbolic meaning: The deeper, often metaphorical meaning that the symbol carries.
Examples:
* Dove: Represents peace
* Red rose: Represents love
* Broken heart: Represents sadness or loss
* The American flag: Represents freedom and patriotism
* The color black: Represents death, evil, or mystery
Symbolism can be:
* Universal: Recognized across cultures (e.g., dove for peace).
* Contextual: Meaning is specific to the work (e.g., a particular character's red scarf might represent their passion).
Symbolism adds layers of meaning to literature, making it richer and more engaging.