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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
Motifs
Explanation and Analysis—Spiritual Blindness:
A notable motif that runs throughout the play is the use of “blindness” as a metaphor for spiritual weakness or ignorance. This metaphor is common in both medieval and Tudor literature, which often describes awareness of God in terms of sight, and ignorance of God as an inability to see.
In an early scene in the play, for example, Death describes a hypothetical man who “loveth riches” instead of God as being “blind” to matters regarding religion.
He that loveth riches I will strike with my dart,
His sight to blind, and from heaven to depart,
Except that alms be his good friend,
In hell for to dwell, world without end.
Related Themes:
