English 115:

Introduction
to Literature

Section 5 | Summer, 2021

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021

 Theme: Quick Review

+ What is a theme?
+ What is the difference between theme
and plot?
+ Why is theme essential in literature?

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021

 The Happy Prince: Review

+ What is the plot summary of “The Happy

Prince”?
+ What was your impression of “The Happy
Prince”?
+ What is the theme of “The Happy Prince”?

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021

 Symbolism
+ In literature, symbol suggests more than its literal meaning.
Symbols generally do not “stand for” a singular meaning, nor
for anything definite. They point or hint or “cast shadows”.
+ Symbols in fiction are generally abstract terms like love or
truth. Often the symbols in fiction are inanimate objects, but
there may be animate objects as well.
+ Symbolic Acts: a gesture with a larger significance than usual.
- A symbolic act does not have to be a large gesture.
© Adila M. Jahan, 2021
Why do writers have to symbolize?—
why don’t they tell us outright?
+ Symbols are so compact, yet fully overloaded. It can be strikingly concrete and
slightly mysterious. To some extent all stories are symbolic.
+ For the usual purpose of reading a story and understanding it, there is probably very
little point in looking for symbolism in every word or minor characters.
- However, it is wise to be an active reader and be alert for symbols than
ignorantly overlook any significant symbols.
+ Refusing to admit or ignoring the presence of symbolic meanings would be another
way to misread a story. The point of reading is to read carefully so that one can
analyze the text efficiently.

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021

How to recognize a symbol in fiction?

The narrator often the symbol a particular emphasis. It may

be mentioned repeatedly throughout the story.
- At times, a crucial symbol may open a story or end it.
- Sometimes an object, act or character is given a special
emphasis and importance that we generally feel safe in
taking it at face value.

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021

 Brainstorm
Ideas
What symbols did you
find in “The Happy
Prince”?

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021


Class Activity:
Directions: Read “The Tell-Tale Heart” by
Edgar Allen Poe. And answer the following
questions then submit it at Google Classroom.
1. What does the sound of the heartbeat
symbolize?
2. Describe the main theme of the story.
3. What is the basic motive behind the
narrator’s intention to kill the old man?
4. Point out the symbolic words used for the
description of EYE of the old man.
© Adila M. Jahan, 2021
5. ‘The Tell Tale Heart’ deals with psychotic issues. What
are those issues?
6. What is the conflict in the story?
7. "No sin goes unpunished": How is this truth proven in
the story "The Tell-Tale Heart"?
8. Is there use of irony in "The Tell-Tale Heart" and if
there is, how does it work in this story?
9. Poe once wrote that every word in a story should create
a “single, overwhelming impression.” In your opinion,
what impression was he trying to create in this story?
10. The narrator of “The Tell-Tale Heart” claims that he is
not mad. Do you agree? Answer the question by collecting
evidence from the story. Focus on the narrator’s thoughts,
words, and actions. Then, write whether or not you think
the narrator is a reliable source of information.
 Writing Activity

Read “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar

Allen Poe. And write a thematic essay
containing the theme of the short
story. Analyze the text using literary
elements. It must be 3 – 4 paragraphs
long. Then submit it at Google
Classroom.

© Adila M. Jahan, 2021