allegorism

Allegorism is a literary and artistic technique where abstract ideas or principles are represented by characters, figures, or events. It is a form of symbolic representation where the surface meaning of a narrative or image conveys a deeper, often moral or spiritual, significance. The term itself derives from the Greek word "allēgoría," meaning "to speak in another way" or "to express something indirectly."

In allegorism, every element within the work is intended to have a symbolic meaning that contributes to a larger, overarching message. This message is often didactic, aiming to teach a lesson or convey a moral truth. Common subjects for allegorical treatment include virtues, vices, religious concepts, political ideas, and philosophical tenets. For instance, a character named "Faith" might represent the abstract concept of religious belief, or a journey through a dark forest could symbolize a person's struggle with temptation.

Allegorism has been prevalent throughout history in various forms of art and literature. Ancient myths, medieval morality plays, and Renaissance poetry frequently employed allegorical devices. The Bible, for example, contains many allegorical passages. In art, paintings often depict abstract concepts through personified figures and symbolic imagery. While distinct from simple symbolism, where individual objects may have symbolic meaning, allegorism involves a systematic and coherent symbolic narrative where multiple elements work together to convey a unified, non-literal meaning. The interpretation of an allegory often requires understanding the cultural, historical, or religious context in which it was created.