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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
Book 1, Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Serpents of Smoke:
Hard Times explores industrialization and its evils through the motif of urban pollution. The “serpents of smoke” coming from the chimneys of the factories in Coketown, as well as the dye in the river, are symbols of the spiritually corrupting influence of industrialization.
It was a town of red brick, or of brick that would have been red if the smoke and ashes would have allowed it; but, as matters stood it was a town of unnatural red and black like the painted face of a savage [...] It had a black canal in it, and a river that ran purple with ill-smelling dye [...]
Related Themes:
Book 1, Chapter 8
Explanation and Analysis—Burning Curiosity:
Dickens explores femininity and imagination, especially as they present themselves in Louisa, through the motif of fire or ashes. In one scene, Louisa looks into the fire as she imagines possible futures for herself and Tom:
Unlock with LitCharts A+“Have you gone to sleep, Loo?”
“No, Tom. I am looking at the fire.”
“You seem to find more to look at in it then ever I could find,” said Tom. “Another of the advantages, I suppose, of being a girl.”
Related Themes:
