Short Stories Literature Terms Symbolism & Character

Symbolism Symbol: Something which stands for, means, or represents something else Example: The Statue of Liberty is a symbol that represents the freedom America offers to immigrants

Symbolism In literature, a symbol is often a tangible, or physical, object that represents a complex or abstract concept Many objects already have “fixed” associations. Example: The color yellow often symbolizes joy or happiness

Symbolism In “Poison,” the poison in the title symbolizes ______________.

Characters  Character: a person in a story, poem, play, or novel Static Characters: do not change throughout story Dynamic Characters: change as a result of the story’s events Flat Characters: have only one or two traits; simple Round Characters: have many different traits; complex

Characterization Characterization: the process of revealing the personality of a character Direct Characterization: method in which a writer tells us exactly what the character is like Indirect Characterization: method in which a writer gives us clues about a character but we have to decide for ourselves exactly what kind of person that character is

Direct or Indirect Characterization??? Billy Bob said, “It’s a beautiful day!” Barbara Sue was covered in muck, her dress torn and hair disheveled. Billy Bob thought to himself, “Barbara Sue sure looks pretty today.” Barbara Sue stopped to help the elderly woman cross the street. Billy Bob was kind and thoughtful.