This paper firstly treats the issue of metaphor and then proceeds with the discussion of the term symbol. To ensure consistency, the presentation of both terms follows the same structure:
First of all the definition and etymology of each term is given; their principal characteristics are mentioned and explicated. Additionally the related concept of "similes" is defined and compared to metaphors. Due to the fact that the definitions of the term "metaphor" vary depending on the theories they are based on, a supplementary outline of these theories is required.
Subsequently the terms are classified into categories in order to allow a more detailed analysis; examples are cited.
The paper ends with a comparison of the two concepts.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Structure of this paper
1 Metaphor
1.1 Definitions
1.1.1. Dictionaries
1.1.2. Specialists’ definitions
1.1.3. Etymology
1.2 Theories on metaphor
1.2.1. Linguistic interest
1.2.1.1. The rhetorical tradition
1.2.1.2. The “substitution theory”
1.2.1.3. The “interactional theory”
1.2.1.4. Similes
1.2.2. Cognitive interest
1.2.2.1. The contemporary theory of metaphor
1.2.3. Classical vs. contemporary
1.3 Types of metaphor
1.3.1. The “dead” metaphor
1.3.2. The “active” metaphor
1.3.3. The cliché
2 Symbol
2.1 Definitions
2.1.1. Dictionaries
2.1.2. Specialists’ definitions
2.1.3. Etymology
2.2 Types of symbol
2.2.1. Arbitrary conventional symbols
2.2.2. Symbols motivated via analogy or synecdoche
2.2.2.1. Literary symbols
Conclusion
Objectives & Core Themes
The primary objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic distinction between the concepts of "metaphor" and "symbol" to prevent confusion in literary interpretation. The study explores their respective definitions, etymologies, and theoretical frameworks, ultimately analyzing how these figurative devices are categorized and utilized in language.
- Definitions and etymological origins of metaphor and symbol.
- Theoretical perspectives on metaphor (linguistic vs. cognitive).
- Categorization of metaphors (dead, active, and clichés).
- Classification of symbols (conventional vs. analogical/synecdochical).
- The role of "similes" and "literary symbols" in figurative language.
- Comparative analysis of metaphor and symbol usage in literature.
Excerpt from the Book
1.2.1.4 Similes
A simile is a "figure of speech in which two things, essentially different but thought to be alike on one or more respects, are compared. In a simile the point of likeness is expressed by "like", "as", or "as if". Similes, which make imaginative comparisons for purposes of explanation or ornament, are essential in all poetry and occur frequently in prose as well." (Shaw 344)
Some examples of similes are the following: "My love is like a red, red rose." (Robert Burns) "Busy as a bee"
Roughly one could say that the difference between metaphor and simile is the following: Whereas a simile states that A is like B, a metaphor states that A is B or substitutes B for A.
Summary of Chapters
1 Metaphor: Explores the linguistic and cognitive theories surrounding metaphors, examining their definitions, classification into types, and how they function as figures of speech compared to similes.
2 Symbol: Analyzes the nature of symbols, covering their dictionary and technical definitions, types including conventional and analogical signs, and specifically addresses the function of literary symbols.
Keywords
Metaphor, Symbol, Figurative Language, Rhetoric, Interactional Theory, Substitution Theory, Cognitive Linguistics, Simile, Dead Metaphor, Active Metaphor, Cliché, Synecdoche, Literary Symbol, Cross-domain Mapping, Analogy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central focus of this paper?
The paper examines the central terms "metaphor" and "symbol" in literature, providing a systematic distinction between them to ensure clarity in their interpretation and usage.
What are the primary themes discussed?
The work covers definitions, etymology, linguistic and cognitive theories of metaphor, classifications of metaphors and symbols, and their role within figurative language.
What is the main goal of the research?
The goal is to systematically distinguish between metaphors and symbols because they are often mistaken for one another, and to outline the theoretical frameworks behind these figurative devices.
What scientific methods are utilized?
The study employs a theoretical analysis based on existing linguistic and literary bibliography, comparing various dictionary entries and scholarly perspectives on metaphor and symbol.
What is covered in the main body?
The body analyzes metaphor definitions, historical and contemporary theories (linguistic vs. cognitive), categories of metaphor, symbol definitions, types of symbols, and their specific application in literary contexts.
Which keywords best characterize the work?
Key terms include Metaphor, Symbol, Figurative Language, Rhetoric, Cognitive Linguistics, Analogy, and Synecdoche.
How do metaphors and symbols differ in repetition?
The paper notes that metaphors tend to become "dead" with frequent repetition, whereas symbols often gain greater power and depth through repeated usage.
How does the contemporary theory redefine metaphor?
The contemporary theory shifts the focus from metaphors being merely linguistic expressions to seeing them as essential cognitive tools involving cross-domain mapping within the conceptual system.
- Quote paper
- Ina-Eleftheria Sachariadis (Author), 2006, Metaphors and Symbols, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/64761
