Symbolism in Yann Martel’s Life of Pi and Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death

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In Yann Martel’s novel Life of Pi, and in Edgar Allan Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death symbolism is key;symbolism in each classic story helps the reader understand both the differences and similarities. The authors utilized the representation of diverse subjects to illustrate the theme. Taking into consideration the characteristics of each narrative, both have contrasts. There themes and symbolisms are different yet similar. Both pieces represent symbolism in unique ways. In Life of Pi there are multiple techniques of symbolism represented. Pi, himself is a symbol. He represents religion,strength, and bravery by surviving. The character of Pi is young and afraid which also feeds from the presence of the tiger (). The tiger embodies fear. Pi pursues to overcome his fear of the tiger. He is determined to survive and the only way to succeed is by making the tiger his friend. He defeats fear; once Pi gets stronger the tiger becomes less of a threat. “Fear” will help Pi keep existing. Strength overcomes fear throughout the novel by illustrating the relationship between Pi and the tiger. Another symbolic aspect from the Life of Pi is the boat. The boat demonstrates stability and safety. Pi is vindicated from the dangerous waters and has a type of shelter that is not the best but will keep him intact. Pi’s boat is a safety net to him; making sure he doesn’t drown and from fear and possible death. Pi’s “shelter” is one of the main reasons why Pi survives his journey; why he is brave; and strong. The boat helps transform Pi’s character by learning how to adjust to life and better his knowledge of survival. All of these specific symbolic aspects feed into Pi and mold his character. The Masque of the Red Death possesses symbolism to creat... ... middle of paper ... ...elps the reader understand both the differences and similarities. Each story possessed their own unique symbols that define a thing,idea, or character. Symbolism is a story of it’s own; describing and relating certain things that tie the theme together. Both of the written works both contain interesting symbols that help develop the character or characters.Fear is definitely the main hidden symbol in each story; the stories are focused on avoiding or overcoming fear to survive. Most of the symbols in each story are dark and scary; but it is what influences and interesting and detailed theme. Works Cited Martel,Yann. Life of Pi: A Novel. New York. Harcourt,2001. Print Poe,Edgar Allen. “The Masque of Red Death” Literature: An Introduction to Reading and Writing, 4th edition, Edgar V. Roberts. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, 2008. 234-237.Print.

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