Allegory Examples: Literature, Film, Music (+ Definition)
As a writer, exploring allegory examples can open up a world of creativity and depth in storytelling. Allegories have been used throughout history in literature, movies, and music to convey complex ideas in a simple and accessible way. In this article, we will delve into famous examples of allegory in various art forms, discuss the definition of allegory, explore different types of allegory, and understand why writers use this literary device.
Definition of Allegory
The term “allegory” originates from the ancient Greek word ἀλληγορία, meaning “other speak.” In modern times, allegory is a literary device that distills intricate concepts into a straightforward story. It can be seen as an equation of sorts: Literal meaning + Hidden meaning = Allegory. Figurative language such as metaphor, personification, and simile are commonly used to convey the deeper meaning of an allegory. However, symbolism plays a significant role in allegory, with characters, actions, and settings becoming fair game for conveying hidden messages.
Allegory can be used in two main ways:
1) Historical Allegory: This type of allegory masks actual events or people to provide socio-political commentary. An example of this is Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” which covertly criticizes British politics.
2) Conceptual Allegory: Conceptual allegory buries abstract ideas, philosophies, and moralities within a story. Edmund Spenser’s “The Faerie Queene” is a prime example, as he uses personification to turn virtues into knights.
Types of Allegory
1. Classical Allegory: Originating in ancient Greek and Roman times, classical allegory was used to teach morality, ethics, and philosophy. Myths and Aesop’s Fables are classic examples of allegory. Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” is another famous classical allegory that explores the difficulty of teaching wisdom.
2. Biblical Allegory: Biblical allegory involves using biblical stories to convey religious teachings or symbolize spiritual meanings. Works like John Bunyan’s “The Pilgrim’s Progress” and C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia” are excellent examples of biblical allegory in literature.
3. Medieval Allegory: During the Middle Ages, medieval allegory was used to promote Christianity through poems and artworks. Dante’s “The Divine Comedy” is a well-known medieval allegory that symbolizes spiritual elevation through Christian faith.
4. Modern Allegory: Modern allegory encompasses allegories created in recent times, as well as works that can be interpreted allegorically. J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible,” and Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Masque of the Red Death” are examples of modern allegory used to comment on various aspects of society.
Examples of Allegory in Literature
1. Animal Farm by George Orwell: This allegorical novel uses anthropomorphic farm animals to depict the Russian revolution and the rise of dictatorships.
2. The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka: In this allegorical story, Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a bug symbolizes social alienation and non-conformity.
3. Moby Dick by Herman Melville: Captain Ahab’s obsession with the white whale Moby Dick serves as an allegory for the destructive nature of human obsessions.
Examples of Allegory in Movies & Television
4. Inside Out: This animated film uses personified emotions to explore the complexities of human emotions and mental well-being.
5. Gravity: The symbolism in this film goes beyond a simple survival story in space, delving into themes of rebirth and emotional evolution.
6. Game of Thrones: The epic saga is seen as an allegory for climate change, with various factions battling for power against supernatural threats.
7. Lost: This TV series is rich in symbolism, contrasting themes of free will vs destiny and good vs evil.
Examples of Allegory in Music
8. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen: This iconic song is often interpreted allegorically, with speculation about its hidden meanings related to Freddie Mercury’s personal life.
9. American Pie by Don McLean: The song is considered an allegory for the end of an era and the decline of the American dream.
10. Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler: Originally written as part of a musical about vampires, this song can be viewed allegorically as a story of love and darkness.
Why Use Allegory in Writing?
Allegories have been a powerful tool for artists to convey hidden messages and critique society throughout history. Writers use allegory for various reasons, including painting vivid pictures, transforming complex ideas into simple truths, sharing controversial subjects indirectly, creating distance from their ideas, and getting their words published.
Allegory vs Other Literary Terms
Allegory differs from other literary devices like symbolism, metaphor, and parable in that it is a complete work of art rather than a building block of a story. While allegories heavily rely on symbolism, not all writing that uses symbolism is an allegory. Similarly, allegory is an extended metaphor that spans the entire story, while parables are shorter, more straightforward stories with a clear moral or lesson at the end.
In Conclusion
Allegory is a powerful literary device that allows writers to convey complex ideas in a simple and accessible way. By exploring examples of allegory in literature, movies, and music, writers can gain insight into how to craft multi-layered stories that leave readers awestruck. Whether you’re a blogger, freelance writer, or novelist, understanding and utilizing allegory can elevate your storytelling to new heights. So, embrace the world of allegory, awaken the storyteller within you, and craft tales that resonate with readers on a profound level.