What Is a Symbol? A symbol is a person, place, thing, or event that stands both for itself and for something beyond itself. © Bob Rowan; Progressive Image/CORBIS The use of symbols in literature is called symbolism.

Why Do Writers Use Symbols? Writers may use symbols to suggest layers of meaning to their work emphasize the story’s theme allow readers to form their own interpretations speak forcefully to readers’ emotions and imaginations

Identifying Symbols To identify symbols, keep in mind that Symbols are often visual. Look for things that seem out of place. Symbols are often given great emphasis in a story. Look for events, objects, or settings to which the writer has given a great deal of emphasis. Look for objects, people, or words that appear throughout the story. © Mark Peterson/Corbis Saba

Identifying Symbols A symbol is something that is identified with something else that is very different. Ask yourself: Does this item also stand for something that is essentially different from itself? Symbols usually have something to do with a story’s theme Ask yourself: How does this item relate to the story’s overall message?

A Word to the Wise Don’t look for symbols in everything you read. Not all writers use symbolism. Not all symbols are universal. CORBIS Images/HRW Is the wolf: A symbol of nature and beauty? A symbol of death and danger? Just a wolf?

Analyzing Symbolism Determine the person, place, thing or event you think is a symbol. What are its characteristics? What other person, place, thing, or event shares those characteristics? Explain it with a TIDIDE or C3 paragraph.

TIDIDE for Symbolism in “Caged Bird” Topic Sentence In “Caged Bird,” the caged bird symbolizes a person who is trapped by circumstances and therefore sad, however longs for happiness. The speaker says, “his wings are clipped and his feet are tied” (12-13). This shows he is trapped and cannot get out even if the cage were open. Similarly, many people feel trapped by depression, poverty, drugs, or societal norms. Important Evidence #1 Detailed Explanation 1, part 1: what quote shows Detailed Explanation 1, part 2: how it proves topic sentence

TIDIDE for Symbolism in “Caged Bird” Important Evidence #2 Transition word Additionally, the speaker says, “____________ ________________________________( ). _____________________________________ _____________________________________. _____________________________________ Detailed Explanation 2, part 1: what quote shows Detailed Explanation 2, part 2: how it proves topic sentence Ending Sentence

Symbolism & Birds Some birds are archetypal symbols Dove Raven/crow Owl Phoenix Carrion/vultures - peace - death - wisdom - rebirth

Symbolism & Birds 2.0 Pick a partner. Pick a feather. Research your bird. Create a poster. Explain who in the book it could symbolize. (using the TIDIDE structure)

Dove Characteristics: white small, stocky low, soft cooing short legs walk as if feet are tender powerful, precise flight patterns eat grass and seeds won’t disturb leaves or litter to find food mother and father nest & raise together The dove could symbolize Atticus because of their shared characteristics. For example, doves eat grass and seeds; they are not predators and do not eat other birds. Similarly, Atticus is a friend to other humans; he does not harm others. Also, doves are known for their soft cooing. They do not cause a ruckus. Atticus is also pretty quiet and reserved. He seldom yells or gets upset.