English · Arts & Literature
allegory
/ˈæl.ɪ.ɡər.i/
[/ˈæl.ɪ.ɡər.i/]
story with hidden meaning
Advancednoun
Definition
A story or image in which characters and events stand for deeper moral or political meanings.
Example
The novel works as an allegory, with each animal representing a different kind of political leader.
The novel works as an allegory, with each animal representing a different kind of political leader.
Etymology
From Greek 'allegoria' (speaking otherwise), from 'allos' (other) plus 'agoreuein' (to speak).
How & Where It’s Used
Common in fables, religious writing, and political fiction.
Literary Heritage
George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' (1945) is a famous political allegory.