allegory

Also known as extended metaphor, allegorical literature

thumb|Pearl, miniature from Pearl Manuscript|Cotton Nero A.x. The dreamer stands on the other side of the stream from the Pearl-maiden. Pearl is one of the greatest allegories from the [[High Middle Ages.]] As a literary device or artistic form, an allegory is a narrative or visual representation in which a character, place, or event can be interpreted to represent a meaning with moral or political significance. Authors have used allegory throughout history in all forms of art to illustrate or convey complex ideas and concepts in ways that are comprehensible or striking to its viewers, readers

AI overview

An allegory is a story or artwork in which characters, places, or events represent deeper moral or political meanings beyond their literal surface. Authors and artists have used allegories throughout history to convey complex ideas in ways that are memorable and understandable to their audiences.

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Wikidata facts

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Commons category: Allegories
native label: ἀλληγορία

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~18 min read

Article

13 sections

Contents

Etymology
Types
Classical allegory
Biblical allegory
Medieval allegory
Modern allegory
Poetry and fiction
Art
Gallery
See also
References
Further reading
External links

Writers and speakers typically use allegories to convey (semi-) hidden or complex meanings through symbolic figures, actions, imagery, or events, which together create the moral, spiritual, or political meaning the author wishes to convey. Many allegories use personification of abstract concepts.