Symbolism is a powerful tool in literature and communication. It allows us to dig deeper into texts and ideas and move beyond the literal interpretation to find deeper meanings.
However, symbolism can be a difficult concept for students to fully grasp. They often struggle to identify symbols, understand what they represent, and recognize the nuances of symbolic representation.
This guide provides educators with practical strategies and examples for how to effectively teach symbols in the classroom. We’ll cover what symbolism is, how it’s different from other literary devices, proven teaching methods, and appropriate texts for instruction.
What is symbolism? (It’s more than just a metaphor.)
Symbolism is the use of an object, person, place, or event to represent an idea or concept. A symbol functions both literally and figuratively in a text.
In other words, the object is physically present in the story, poem, or play, but it also stands for something else.
Symbols can have multiple meanings, but those meanings are usually grounded in the text itself. When you’re trying to interpret a symbol, you should always look for evidence in the text to support your interpretation.
Symbolism, metaphor, and allegory
Symbolism is similar to both metaphor and allegory, but it’s also distinct.
Symbols are physically present in the text, while metaphors are figurative comparisons. For example, if I were to call your new car a “rocket,” that would be a metaphor because your car is not literally a rocket. If your car were named “Apollo,” that would be symbolism because Apollo is the name of a real car, but it also represents the Greek god of the sun and light.
Allegory is a longer, more involved type of metaphor that represents a larger, often moral or political, idea. Allegory is related to symbolism, but it’s a distinct concept.
Why is symbolism important?
If you want to get the most out of a poem, story, or novel, you need to understand symbolism. Symbols deepen the meaning of a text and help you understand the author’s message.
If you plan to take AP Literature, understanding symbolism isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. You’ll need to recognize and interpret symbols to succeed on the exam.
Learning about symbolism teaches you to think critically. When you analyze symbols, you make connections, draw conclusions, and back up your ideas with evidence from the text. These are important skills that will help you in all areas of your life.
Practical Strategies for Teaching Symbolism
Symbolism can be a tricky concept for students to grasp. Here are some strategies that can help you bring symbols to life in your classroom.
Visual Aids and Anchor Charts
Start by creating anchor charts that list common symbols, along with visuals and brief explanations of what they might represent. Discuss symbols that pop up frequently in literature and pop culture. For example, you might talk about how colors often have symbolic meanings (red for passion, blue for sadness) or how weather can be symbolic (rain for sorrow, sunshine for happiness).
The Symbol Index Method
The symbol index method involves tracking recurring images or objects in a text. Give students index cards or sticky notes to keep track of symbols as they read. Encourage them to note the context in which these images appear, along with any associated emotions or ideas. This helps students see how a symbol’s meaning can evolve throughout a story.
The Symbolism Ladder
Think of symbolism as a ladder, where you move from the literal to the symbolic. First, guide students to identify the literal object or event in the text. Then, brainstorm possible symbolic interpretations. For example, if a character is trapped in a dark forest, the literal event is that they’re lost in the woods. But what could that symbolize? Maybe it represents feeling lost in life, facing challenges, or overcoming fear. Always encourage students to back up their interpretations with evidence from the text.
The Symbolism One-Pager
A “symbolism one-pager” is a creative activity where students visually process symbolism using word art, images, and quotes from the text. They can create a single page that captures their understanding of a symbol’s meaning and significance. This allows them to synthesize their understanding in a creative and memorable way.
Graphic Organizers
Graphic organizers like bubble maps or Venn diagrams can be super helpful for interpreting specific symbols. Students can visually map out both the literal and figurative meanings of a symbol. For example, in a bubble map, the central bubble might be the symbol (e.g., a dove), and the surrounding bubbles could represent its possible meanings (peace, hope, freedom). A Venn diagram could compare and contrast the literal and symbolic aspects of the dove.
Use pop culture to teach symbolism
One of the best ways to teach symbolism is to use examples from pop culture. This helps bridge the gap between abstract concepts and things students already know and care about.
Consider using symbols from movies, TV shows, and video games. For instance, discuss the meaning of the mockingjay in The Hunger Games or the lightning bolt scar in Harry Potter. Even logos can be great examples.
You can also have students do a quick write, where they consider why someone might wear or carry a common symbol. What does the symbol mean to them? What does it communicate to others? This helps them understand the purpose and power of symbolic representation in a tangible way.
Choosing appropriate texts for teaching symbolism
When you’re teaching symbolism, the text you choose can make all the difference. Here are a couple of genres that work well, along with some specific examples.
Short stories
Because short stories are, well, short, they’re a great way to introduce the concept of symbolism. Their brevity allows you to focus on a single, powerful theme without overwhelming your students.
Here are some stories that work well for different levels:
- For standard-level students: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe
- For AP Literature students: “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” by Flannery O’Connor
Poetry
Poetry is another effective way to teach symbolism, as poems are often packed with rich, layered imagery. Poems by Robert Frost, Emily Dickinson, and Langston Hughes are excellent choices.
Things to keep in mind when selecting a text
It’s important to choose texts that your students will be able to understand and relate to. The texts should also have clear examples of symbolism so your students can develop their analytical skills.
Helping Students Understand Symbols
Students often struggle with symbols. It’s easy for them to misidentify symbols or misinterpret what they mean.
One common issue is the idea that a symbol can mean anything a person wants it to mean. It’s crucial to show students how to find evidence for their interpretations in the text.
Teachers should be ready to give students clear guidance and support as they learn how to understand symbolism.
Conclusion
Teaching students about symbolism is essential for developing critical thinking and literary analysis skills. The ability to recognize and interpret symbols unlocks deeper meanings in literature and encourages a more nuanced understanding of the author’s message.
By implementing the strategies and examples outlined in this guide, educators can enhance student comprehension of symbolism and its impact.
Ultimately, mastering symbolism empowers students to appreciate the power of symbolic representation, not only in literature but also in the world around them.