Previous
Mood
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 The Faerie Queene
Book I: Canto II
Explanation and Analysis—All that Glitters...:
A prominent motif in Book I of The Faerie Queene is gold, and more specifically, golden jewelry and clothing. Spenser uses gold repeatedly as a symbol of false or deceptive value. The first character who is depicted as wearing gold in Book I is the witch-like Duessa in her disguise as the good Fidessa. When Redcross first encounters her, the narrator describes her as:
A goodly Lady clad in scarlot red,
Purfled with gold and pearle of rich assay
Related Themes:
Book I: Canto IV
Explanation and Analysis—All that Glitters...:
A prominent motif in Book I of The Faerie Queene is gold, and more specifically, golden jewelry and clothing. Spenser uses gold repeatedly as a symbol of false or deceptive value. The first character who is depicted as wearing gold in Book I is the witch-like Duessa in her disguise as the good Fidessa. When Redcross first encounters her, the narrator describes her as:
Unlock with LitCharts A+A goodly Lady clad in scarlot red,
Purfled with gold and pearle of rich assay
Related Themes:
