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Symbols In The Storm

398 Words2 Pages

Symbolism is one of the literary devices commonly used in drama. The symbol imparts the hidden meanings other than the apparent ones and shows the emotional effects on the characters. Chopin and Ibsen both use their share of symbolism to express a deeper insight on the characters and situations. In The Storm, Chopin uses the storm as an integral symbol for the story. It begins and ends with the affair that takes place between Calixta and Alce, symbolizing passion and unpredictability. It begins to grow dark as Alce arrives, picking up violently as they get closer, as their passion parallels the storm intensely right down to the moment it calms and the affair ends. “So the storm passed and everyone was happy (Chopin, The Storm).” This symbolizes …show more content…

Mallard’s life now that her husband has passed. Spring represents rebirth, hope and growth, all of which she can now experience with her newfound freedom. Looking through her window, Chopin specifies the comfortable, roomy armchair Mrs. Mallard sinks into, this represents the rest from her oppressive life and societal expectations she is now free from; she is no longer restricted. In a similar way Ibsen uses symbolism to represent Nora’s oppression and freedom as well. The tarantella dance which Torvald insists she does represents Nora’s frustrations with being oppressed over matters that wouldn’t be an issue if she were a man. And, one of the more significant symbols in A Doll’s House, the door slamming shut after Nora leaves in the last scene. Slamming the door is leaving her role as wife and mother, shutting that part of her life away in time to open up a new door of freedom to find her individuality and identity. Both writers use literary devices very well, however Chopin expresses her symbolism in a subtle but conscious way which enhances her critique in a way Ibsen’s does not. Ibsen portrays Nora with a childish air that undermines her decisions no matter how strong they

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