How To Read Literature Like a Professor

Chapter 12-Is That a Symbol…

Symbols can be many things, not just people, but objects or emotions. The writers usually have their own way of finding or making their symbols, but it’s up to the reader to find it and interpret what it means or is.

Chapter 13- It’s All Political

Politics is involved in everything. It’s in novels, short stories, and even magazines. The writers secretly put their political view in their writings. You may not see it, but it’s there. Writers also put how society really is or their view of it in their writings. Some views are cruel and show society as hurtful and rude and others show it as kind and gentle.

Chapter 14- Yes, She’s a Christ Figure, Too

There is usually a character in every book that is a Christ figure. A Christ figure that has followers and has been damaged somehow. The list in the chapter tells these; 1. Crucified, wounds in the hands and feet and head 2. In agony 3. Self- sacrificing 4. Good with children 5. Good with bread, water, fish, or wine 6. 33 years of age when last seen 7. Employed as a carpenter 8. Humble modes of transportation like a donkey 9. Believed to have walked on water 10. Portrayed with arms outstretched 11. Known to have spent time in the wilderness 12. A confrontation with the devil or tempted 13. Last seen in company with thieves 14. Creator of many parables 15. Buried and arose on the third day 16. Had disciples, had twelve at first but 17 later 17. Very forgiving 18. Came to redeem an unworthy world.