Allegorical characters

Definition

Allegorical characters are symbolic figures in literature that represent abstract ideas, moral qualities, or themes rather than just being simple characters with a specific personality. These characters often embody concepts such as virtue, vice, death, and redemption, and are commonly used in various works to convey deeper meanings and messages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Milton's works, especially 'Paradise Lost,' feature allegorical characters that represent complex moral and theological concepts, such as Satan representing rebellion against divine authority.
2. In 'Comus,' the character of Comus himself serves as an allegorical figure representing the dangers of temptation and excess.
3. Milton often used allegorical characters to engage readers with broader themes of good vs. evil, free will, and redemption throughout his writings.
4. The character of Sin in 'Paradise Lost' is not just a personification of sin but also reflects Milton's views on human nature and the consequences of disobedience.
5. Allegorical characters in Milton’s works often interact with more relatable figures, creating a rich tapestry of moral lessons for the reader to ponder.

Review Questions

• How do allegorical characters enhance the themes present in Milton's major works?
  • Allegorical characters deepen the exploration of themes like free will, redemption, and the nature of evil by personifying these abstract ideas. For instance, in 'Paradise Lost,' Satan is not just an antagonist but a complex figure representing rebellion and the human struggle against divine order. This layering allows readers to reflect on their own moral choices and the consequences of those choices within a grander narrative.
• Discuss the role of allegorical characters in conveying moral lessons in Milton's writings.
  • Allegorical characters serve as vehicles for Milton to communicate profound moral lessons to his audience. Characters like Comus illustrate the perils of temptation, while others symbolize virtues or vices that guide the narrative toward specific ethical considerations. Through these characters' actions and interactions, readers gain insight into the broader implications of morality within their own lives.
• Evaluate how Milton's use of allegorical characters compares to other literary traditions and what this reveals about his philosophical views.
  • Milton's use of allegorical characters parallels traditions seen in works like Dante's 'Divine Comedy,' where characters symbolize deeper spiritual truths. However, Milton's approach often emphasizes individual choice and inner conflict more intensely than some other traditions. This reveals his philosophical views on free will, as he suggests that every individual must confront their moral choices. The complexity of Milton’s allegories invites readers to engage with their own beliefs about morality and existence, fostering a personal connection to the text.

Related terms

Allegory: A narrative technique in which characters and events represent broader themes and ideas, often moral, political, or spiritual in nature.

Personification: A literary device where human traits are attributed to non-human entities or abstract concepts, often used to create allegorical characters.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities by giving them symbolic meanings different from their literal sense.