Definition
A narrative or artistic work in which characters, events, and settings represent abstract ideas or moral lessons rather than existing as literal elements. The story operates on multiple levels, with a surface narrative that conveys a deeper symbolic or didactic meaning.
Example Usage
Pilgrim's Progress is a famous allegory in which the protagonist's journey represents the spiritual journey of a Christian soul.
Origin
From Greek allegoria, literally 'other-speaking' (alla, other + agoreuein, to speak publicly).
Fun Fact
Animal Farm is a modern political allegory where farm animals represent figures and events of the Russian Revolution, making complex history accessible through simple narrative.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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