Arms and the Man Symbols

The library in the Petkoff home is often held up as a symbol of their wealth, status, and accomplishment. Libraries are rare in Bulgarian homes, and therefore the library does indicate the family’s wealth—but it… (read full symbol analysis)

Raina is often seen clutching a romantic novel—but, crucially, she is rarely reading it. She uses the books rather like props. They once again indicate shallowness and social performance. That Raina neglects to actually read… (read full symbol analysis)