Symbols and Motifs in Literature

What is a motif in literature?

• A type of literary genre

• A character's name in a story

• A specific location where the story takes place

• A recurring element with symbolic significance

Explain the difference between a symbol and a motif.

• A symbol is always a physical object, while a motif is always an abstract concept.

• A symbol is only used in poetry, while a motif is only used in prose.

• A symbol is always positive, while a motif can be positive or negative.

• A symbol represents something beyond its literal meaning, while a motif is a recurring element with symbolic significance.

Why do authors use recurring motifs in their writing?

• To save time and effort in coming up with new ideas

• To distract from the main themes and messages of the writing

• To create a sense of unity and reinforce themes

• To confuse the readers and make the writing more complex

How can a motif enhance the reader's understanding of a character or theme?

• By providing a recurring symbol or image that represents a specific idea or emotion associated with the character or theme.

• By introducing irrelevant details that confuse the reader

• By making the motif completely unrelated to the character or theme

• By using a motif only once in the entire story

The word "night" is used throughout Wiesel's memoir in...

• both a literal and literal fashion

• both a literal and symbolic fashion

• the first chapter

• exclusively a symbolic fashion

On page 3, Wiesel says, "I was almost thirteen and..."

What is the definition of motif?

• A type of theme

• An item that represents something else

• A repeated pattern or image found within a text

• A recurring pattern found in the world

Which of the following statements is true?

• Motifs are usually obvious to spot in a story

• Motifs are usually one word

• A repeated quote can be an example of a motif

• Both B and C

Which of the following answer choices is an example of a motif?

• Courage

• Never give up

• Work hard to achieve your goals

• Always do the right thing

What is theme?

• The main idea of the text

• A symbol of something within the story

• the message or lesson the author want you to learn from the story

• None of the above