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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
Key Examples in The Birthmark
Allegory
Explanation and Analysis—Conformity:
On many levels, "The Birthmark" is an allegory for conformity. The first prominent example is Georgiana's conformity to the feminine ideal. She adheres to the practices of female virtue in her submission to, praise for, and warmth toward her husband. Even on her deathbed, she speaks to him with gratitude and tenderness. Instead of accusing him of murder, she tries to console him:
My poor Aylmer [...] you have aimed loftily; you have done nobly. Do not repent that with so high and pure a feeling, you have rejected the best the earth could offer. Aylmer, dearest Aylmer, I am dying!
Related Themes:
