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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
Key Examples in In the Time of the Butterflies
Motifs
Explanation and Analysis—Butterflies:
As the title In the Time of the Butterflies suggests, butterflies are a critically important motif throughout Alvarez's story. The three Mirabal sisters who become directly involved in the revolution—Minerva, Mate, and Patria— are codenamed Mariposa, Spanish for butterfly. Specifically, Minerva is first codenamed Mariposa but soon becomes Mariposa #1, and Mate and Patria become Mariposa #2 and Mariposa #3, respectively.
Related Themes:
