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Definition of Motif
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Part 2, Chapter 4
Explanation and Analysis—The Effect of Adultery :
Anna Karenina is a novel of infidelity and guilt, therefore establishing adultery as a motif:
He knew very well that in the eyes of Betsy and all society people he ran no risk of being ridiculous. He knew very well that for those people the role of the unhappy lover of a young girl, or of a free woman generally, might be ridiculous; but the role of a man who attached himself to a married woman and devoted his life to involving her in adultery at all costs, had something beautiful and grand about it and could never be ridiculous, and therefore, with a proud and gay smile playing under his moustache, he lowered the opera-glasses and looked at his cousin.
Related Themes:
Part 2, Chapter 9
Explanation and Analysis—The Inner Monologue:
After accusing Anna of improper behavior, Karenin tells Anna, "I am your husband and I love you." Karenin's proclamation prompts Anna's inner monologue, establishing this device as a motif in the novel:
Unlock with LitCharts A+For a moment her face fell and the mocking spark in her eye went out; but the word ‘love’ again made her indignant. She thought: ‘Love? But can he love? If he hadn’t heard there was such a thing as love, he would never have used the word. He doesn’t even know what love is.’
‘Alexei Alexandrovich, really, I don’t understand,’ she said. ‘Explain what it is you find ...’
Related Themes:
