Allegoric Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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allegoric
[หรฆlษชหษกษหrษชk ]
Definition
figurative language
Allegoric refers to something that uses allegory, which is a figure of speech in which abstract ideas and principles are described in terms of characters, figures, and events. It is often employed in literature and art to convey deeper meanings beneath the surface narrative.
Synonyms
emblematic, figurative, symbolic.
Examples of usage
- The allegoric nature of the poem invites multiple interpretations.
- In his allegoric painting, the artist depicted the struggle between good and evil.
- Many fairy tales have allegoric elements that teach moral lessons.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Famous works, like George Orwell's 'Animal Farm', demonstrate allegoric writing by using animals to represent social and political themes.
- Dante's 'Divine Comedy' employs allegory to explore moral and spiritual concepts through a fantastical journey.
- Allegoric stories often lead readers to uncover layers of meaning, enhancing their understanding of complex ideas.
Art
- Many paintings use allegory to communicate messages; for instance, 'The Allegory of Painting' by Vermeer features a woman who symbolizes art itself.
- In Renaissance art, symbols like skulls and hourglasses often represent mortality, serving as allegoric reminders about lifeโs transient nature.
- Modern films, such as 'The Matrix', incorporate allegoric elements, questioning reality through its storyline and characters.
Psychology
- Allegoric stories can serve as therapeutic tools, helping individuals explore and express complex emotions in a safe way.
- Symbolism in allegory can resonate subconsciously, allowing deeper understanding of personal and collective experiences.
- Reading allegoric literature may enhance empathy, as it encourages readers to see issues from different perspectives.
Pop Culture
- The superhero movies often contain allegoric themes, representing broader societal issues like justice and morality.
- Children's cartoons frequently use allegoric storytelling, offering lessons about teamwork or honesty through colorful characters and adventures.
- Songs with allegoric lyrics can convey powerful messages about love, loss, or social justice, resonating with listeners on multiple levels.
Origin of 'allegoric'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'allegoria', meaning 'speaking otherwise', where 'al' indicates 'other' and 'egoria' relates to 'speaking'.
- It appeared in English around the 14th century, first describing stories that had more meaning than what was directly said.
- The usage of 'allegoric' has evolved over time, expanding from literature to art and film.
The term 'allegoric' originates from the Greek word 'allegoria', which translates to 'other speaking'. It was formed from the roots 'allos' meaning 'other' and 'agoreuein' meaning 'to speak'. The concept dates back to ancient literature, where authors used allegory to convey complex ideas about morality, politics, and human nature through symbolic figures and events. Over time, the term and its applications evolved, appearing in various art forms, including literature, painting, and drama. It became particularly prominent during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, when allegorical interpretations of texts and artworks were common. The use of allegory remains prevalent in contemporary literature and art, often serving as a device for social commentary or ethical reflection.