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Literary Devices
Definition of Allegory
An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and events. The story of "The Tortoise and The Hare" is... read full definition
An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and events. The story of "The... read full definition
An allegory is a work that conveys a hidden meaning—usually moral, spiritual, or political—through the use of symbolic characters and... read full definition
Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis—Atticus or Tom:
In Chapter 5, Charlie reflects with skepticism on Jasper's insistence that Jack Lionel killed Laura. He uses a pair of allusions that demonstrate his sense that his life is an allegory :
Of course, it’s an attractive notion: pinning it all on the town recluse with the shady history. But it seems so filled with coincidence and chance. It seems too convenient. Then again, maybe the simplest answer really is the most accurate. I wonder too if Jasper actually needs my help. Whether he came to my window looking for Atticus Finch or Tom Sawyer. A brain or an ally. Maybe both.
Related Themes:
Chapter 6
Explanation and Analysis—Romeo and Juliet:
The novel can be read as an imperfect, multi-layered allegory of Romeo and Juliet. Many of the characters' relationships map onto Shakespeare's tragedy about forbidden love, a pattern a police officer warns Charlie to be wary of in Chapter 6:
Unlock with LitCharts A+He winked and reminded me that Romeo and Juliet didn’t have a happy ending. But if either one of them had exercised some common sense and clear thinking, they might have come out all right.
Related Themes:
