Literary CriticismImagery, Symbols, Motifs

Imagery The use of figurative language to represent

objects, actions and ideas in such a way that it appeals to our physical senses.

Figurative language is VIVID language

Appeals to All of our Senses

The forest was dark, desolate and devoid of life. Without her dimming headlamp, she would be shrouded in blackness.

Dried leaves crunched beneath her feet while the wind howled.

She couldn’t stop the tears from falling. They stung her cheeks chapped from the wind. She tripped and the thorns pierced her thin trousers.

Your Turn Write a vivid sentence inspired by Toulouse

Lautrec's painting for each of your senseso Sighto Hearingo Tasteo Smello Touch

Symbolism? The representation of a concept through symbols

or objects. A symbol is a material object that represents an

abstract idea or concept.

Examples of Symbolism

Some are more literal: A heart is symbolic of love.

Some are more abstract: The green light in The Great Gatsby is symbolic of Gatsby’s unrealistic hope for Daisy’s love.

Your Turn Create a list of literal and abstract symbols you notice in

literature

Freshman texts: Absolutely True Diary, Romeo and Juliet, Warriors Don’t Cry, California Blue, A Long Way Gone, House on Mango Street, Samurai’s Garden, Bronx Masquerade, Never Cry Wolf, Ender’s Game, Speak, Sophomore Texts: Fahrenheit 451, Persepolis, Macbeth, Of Mice and Men, Where The Heart Is, The Alchemist, Girl Who Fell from the Sky, Lord of the Flies, Night, Malcolm X, Maus, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Julius Cesar, Antigone, …Others:

Motif A recurring structural device that reminds the

audience of an important theme. Often, the repeated device is a symbol. However, it

can be repeated patterns or elements that create symbolic meaning.

Colors: what colors appear in The Great Gatsby? What do they connote?

In the X-Men film series, how are colors used to create symbolic meaning?

Weather Clothing Sound in film

Your Turn What motifs do you notice in AGOOM? Talk with a partner. What is the difference

between a symbol and a motif? How would you discuss them in your analysis?

What is connotation?