Allegorism is a literary device that has been used in literature for centuries. It is a technique that involves the use of symbols and metaphors to convey a deeper meaning or message. Allegorism is used in various forms of literature, including poetry, prose, and drama. This article will define and explore the meaning of allegorism, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Allegorism is a literary technique that involves the use of symbols and metaphors to convey a deeper meaning or message. It is a form of extended metaphor that is used to express abstract ideas or concepts. Allegorism is often used to convey moral or political messages.
Origin
The term “allegorism” is derived from the Greek word “allegoria,” which means to speak in other words. The use of allegory can be traced back to ancient times, with examples found in the works of Homer, Aesop, and Plato. The use of allegory became more prevalent during the Middle Ages, where it was used in religious texts to convey moral and spiritual messages.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, allegorism is “the practice of using allegory.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines allegorism as “the use of allegory in literature or art.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines allegorism as “the use of symbols and metaphors to convey a deeper meaning or message.”
Associations
Allegorism is often associated with symbolism, metaphor, and extended metaphor. It is also associated with moral and political messages, as allegory is often used to convey these types of messages. Allegorism is commonly used in literature, art, and film.
Synonyms
Synonyms of allegorism include symbolism, metaphor, extended metaphor, and parable.
Antonyms
Antonyms of allegorism include literalism, realism, and straightforwardness.
The same root words
The root word of allegorism is “allegory,” which comes from the Greek word “allegoria,” meaning to speak in other words.
Example Sentences
- In “Animal Farm,” George Orwell uses allegorism to convey a political message about the dangers of totalitarianism.
- Nathaniel Hawthorne uses allegorism in “The Scarlet Letter” to explore the themes of guilt and redemption.
- In “The Chronicles of Narnia,” C.S. Lewis uses allegorism to explore Christian themes and morality.
- In “The Lord of the Rings,” J.R.R. Tolkien uses allegorism to explore themes of power, corruption, and redemption.
- In “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” John Bunyan uses allegorism to explore the journey of the Christian soul towards salvation.