What is an allegory?

An allegory is defined as a narrative where characters and events symbolize deeper meanings, often representing moral, political, or spiritual ideas. This storytelling technique uses symbolism to convey complex concepts in a way that can be more easily understood by the audience. For example, George Orwell’s "Animal Farm" serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution, using animals to explore themes of power and corruption. The richness of an allegory lies in its layered meanings, inviting readers to uncover the broader implications of the characters and events presented.

In contrast, a story that is intended to entertain only lacks the deeper significance typically associated with allegories. A poem with a specific rhyme scheme does not fit the definition of an allegory, as it pertains more to structure and form rather than symbolic storytelling. Lastly, a type of humorous writing focuses on eliciting laughter and does not necessarily involve deeper symbolic meaning, which is a key characteristic of allegory.