What does an umbrella symbolize in literature?
Umbrellas have been used in literature for centuries to symbolize a variety of things, including protection, shelter, mystery, and romance. These elegant and functional accessories have captured the imagination of writers and readers alike, adding depth and symbolism to their stories.
Protection from the elements and beyond
One of the most common symbolic meanings of umbrellas is protection. In literature, umbrellas are often used to represent protection from the elements, but they can also represent protection from emotional or psychological harm.
For example, in the novel The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the character of Hester Prynne is often seen carrying an umbrella. The umbrella represents Hester's protection from the judgmental eyes of her Puritan community. It shields her from their harsh criticism and allows her to maintain a sense of dignity and privacy.
In another classic novel, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, the character of Atticus Finch is often seen carrying an umbrella. The umbrella represents Atticus' protective nature towards his children, Scout and Jem. It symbolizes his desire to shield them from the prejudice and injustice that pervades their society.
Shelter from the storm
Umbrellas also symbolize shelter in literature. They provide a physical refuge from the rain, wind, and other elements, but they can also offer emotional shelter and a sense of security.
In the beloved children's book Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers, the magical nanny Mary Poppins uses her umbrella to transport herself and the children to fantastical worlds. The umbrella becomes a portal to adventure and a safe haven from the troubles of everyday life.
Similarly, in the gothic novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, the character of Mr. Rochester offers Jane his umbrella during a storm. This small act of kindness and protection foreshadows the shelter and love he will provide for her throughout the novel.
Mystery and romance under the umbrella
Umbrellas also carry an air of mystery and romance in literature. They can create an intimate and secretive atmosphere, shielding characters from prying eyes and allowing clandestine meetings to take place.
In the classic film Singing in the Rain, the iconic scene where Gene Kelly dances with an umbrella in the rain is a symbol of joy, freedom, and romance. The umbrella becomes a prop for his expressive dance moves and a symbol of his carefree spirit.
In the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the character of Jay Gatsby uses his umbrella to shield himself and Daisy Buchanan from the rain during a pivotal scene. The umbrella becomes a symbol of their illicit love affair and the secrecy that surrounds it.
In conclusion
Umbrellas have a rich symbolic history in literature, representing protection, shelter, mystery, and romance. They add depth and meaning to the stories they appear in, creating a sense of elegance, intrigue, and exclusivity. So the next time you see an umbrella, remember the hidden symbolism it carries and the worlds it can transport you to.