Allegory Definition

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Why does the text say that Plato’s allegory tells a story, then contradict itself and say that Plato’s allegory doesn’t tell a story?

Although an allegory uses symbols, it is different from symbolism. An allegory is a complete narrative that involves characters and events that stand for an abstract idea or event. A symbol, on the other hand, is an object that stands for another object, giving it a particular meaning. Unlike allegory, symbolism does not tell a story. For example, Plato, in his Allegory of Cave, tells a story of how some people are ignorant, while at the same time other people “see the light.” Plato’s allegory stands for an idea and does not tell an actual story. 

English Tutor Answered question May 27, 2020
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The emphasis is on “actual story.” If you have read Allegory of Cave, you will easily understand the meanings.

English Tutor Answered question May 27, 2020