What is an 'allegory' in literature?

An allegory in literature is a narrative in which characters, events, and details symbolize deeper meanings, often reflecting moral, spiritual, or political issues. This storytelling technique allows authors to express complex ideas through figurative language and personification, making it easier for readers to grasp the underlying message.

For example, a story might use a journey to represent the struggles of life, with characters embodying virtues or vices, illustrating concepts such as justice, greed, or sacrifice. This layered approach enables readers to engage with the text on multiple levels, encouraging them to think critically about the symbolic connections and meanings embedded within the narrative.

In contrast, a narrative with a simple plot does not necessarily include these deeper symbolic meanings, nor does a story that recounts actual historical events inherently contain allegorical interpretations. While poems can convey moral lessons, not all poems function as allegories, which are specifically tied to the broader narrative structure found in prose.