Allegorical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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allegorical
[หรฆlษชหษกษหrษชkษl ]
Definitions
literature
Consisting of or pertaining to allegory; of the nature of an allegory; describing by resemblance; figurative.
Synonyms
figurative, representative, symbolic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allegorical |
Used when talking about something that represents a deeper, often moral or political meaning through characters and events.
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| symbolic |
Used when referring to something that represents or stands for something else, often an abstract idea.
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| figurative |
Used to describe language that uses figures of speech and does not have its usual literal meaning.
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| representative |
Used to describe something that serves as a typical example or symbol of a particular quality or group.
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Examples of usage
- The story was allegorical, with each character representing a different aspect of society.
- The allegorical elements in the novel added depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
art
Characterized by the use of allegory; symbolic.
Synonyms
figurative, representational, symbolic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allegorical |
Used when referring to a story, poem, or picture that reveals a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
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| symbolic |
Used when something represents or stands for something else, particularly an idea or concept.
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| figurative |
Applied when a word or expression is used in a way that is different from the usual meaning, often using metaphors and comparisons.
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| representational |
Used to describe art that aims to represent actual objects or subjects from reality.
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Examples of usage
- The painting was allegorical, with hidden meanings waiting to be deciphered.
- The artist's allegorical style allowed viewers to interpret the artwork in multiple ways.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- One of the most famous allegorical works is 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell, where farm animals represent different social classes and political figures.
- The 'Divine Comedy' by Dante Alighieri is an allegory of the soul's journey toward God, using vivid imagery of heaven, hell, and purgatory.
- Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan uses characters like Christian and Hopeful to symbolize different aspects of faith and lifeโs journey.
Art
- Allegorical paintings often feature personifications, such as Liberty or Justice, depicted as human figures embodying these concepts.
- The artwork 'The Allegory of Spring' by Sandro Botticelli uses various symbols and figures to convey the arrival of spring and the fertility of nature.
- Many Renaissance artists painted allegories to provide moral or political commentary, using complex symbolism to engage viewers.
Philosophy
- Many philosophical texts, such as Platoโs 'Allegory of the Cave,' use allegory to discuss ideas about reality, perception, and enlightenment.
- The allegorical method is often employed to critique society and provoke thought, urging readers to reflect on deeper meanings beneath the surface.
- Allegories often reflect ethical questions, prompting individuals to consider their values and the consequences of their actions.
Film and Media
- Movies like 'The Matrix' are considered allegorical, with layers of meaning that explore concepts of reality, control, and freedom.
- 'Panโs Labyrinth' uses allegory to depict the struggle between innocence and brutality amidst the backdrop of wartime Spain.
- Animated films, such as 'Zootopia,' convey social issues like discrimination and acceptance through cute animal characters and situations.
History
- Throughout history, allegories have been used in political discourse, where events and figures are depicted symbolically to comment on contemporary issues.
- During the Reformation, allegorical interpretations of biblical texts were pivotal, as they allowed reformers to convey complex ideas subtly.
- The use of allegory became prevalent during times of oppression, enabling writers and artists to critique authority while avoiding censorship.
Origin of 'allegorical'
The word 'allegorical' originates from the late Latin term 'allegoricus', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'allegorikos', meaning 'figurative'. The use of allegory in literature and art dates back to ancient times, with allegorical interpretations often used to convey deeper meanings and messages.