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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 North and South
Chapter 19
Explanation and Analysis—Hounds, Bees, and Wolves:
The novel uses a motif of people being described as groups of animals; both sides, employers and employees, do this, showing how class antagonism gets expressed in dehumanizing ways by all parties in Milton.
Related Themes:
Chapter 50
Explanation and Analysis—Individuals vs. Crowds:
The novel uses the motif of individuals versus crowds to suggest that as long as people see each other primarily as groups or classes, they'll tend to be wary or even antagonistic toward one another; it's only through individual, personal connections, the novel suggests, that genuine regard, much less social progress, becomes thinkable.
Related Themes:
Chapter 51
Explanation and Analysis—Individuals vs. Crowds:
The novel uses the motif of individuals versus crowds to suggest that as long as people see each other primarily as groups or classes, they'll tend to be wary or even antagonistic toward one another; it's only through individual, personal connections, the novel suggests, that genuine regard, much less social progress, becomes thinkable.
Related Themes:
