Home > Subjects > English > English level 3 > 3.3 Shakespeare > Subject content > Symbolism and imagery
- Subject: English
- AS: 90722
- Level: 3
- Credits: 3
- External
3.3 Respond critically to Shakespearean drama studied
Symbolism and imagery
A symbol is an object or image that is used to represent an idea. Often with Shakespeare there are several layers of meaning in the use of symbolism and imagery. For example in Hamlet the ghost in the opening scenes would have challenged the attitudes of an Elizabethan audience who like Hamlet were unsure if ghosts were good or evil, real or imaginary.
Shakespeare uses imagery to extend and develop themes, characters, and style. Images can be associated with a character to build up a mood and reveal clear traits for the audience to recognise.
Key points to study
- What symbols and/or images are used in the text?
- What does each symbol and/or image mean and who is connected with it?
- How effective is each symbol and/or image?
Ways to study symbol
- Close read – the opening or close of an act or scene, or a moment of high tension looking for any symbols and/or images mentioned or used by certain characters.
- Chart:
- What is the object/image?
- Where and when is the object/image shown?
- Who is connected with the object/image?
- What does the object/image mean or show us about the character?
- How does the symbol/image show the themes?
Other keywords for symbol: symbolism, symbolic, significant object, motif, image.
