1. Symbolic Representation: Allegories employ symbolism to represent abstract ideas, concepts, or moral lessons. Characters, settings, and events are not intended to be taken literally, but rather as metaphors for something deeper. This fundamental characteristic sets them apart from realistic fiction, which aims to depict life as it is.
2. Lack of Verisimilitude: Realistic fiction strives for verisimilitude, meaning a convincing sense of reality. Allegories often present fantastical elements, improbable events, or characters that defy typical human behavior. This lack of realism is deliberate to reinforce the allegorical message.
3. Focus on the Abstract: The primary focus of an allegory is the abstract idea being conveyed. Characters and plot serve as vehicles for this message, not as ends in themselves. In contrast, realistic fiction prioritizes the development of characters, relationships, and the complexities of everyday life.
4. Moral or Spiritual Emphasis: Allegories often carry a moral or spiritual message. They aim to teach a lesson, illustrate a virtue, or explore philosophical concepts. Realistic fiction, while sometimes dealing with moral themes, prioritizes the exploration of human experiences and motivations.
Examples:
* Animal Farm (George Orwell): This allegory uses animals to represent different social classes in the Russian Revolution. The story is not intended to be taken literally about talking animals, but as a critique of totalitarian regimes.
* The Pilgrim's Progress (John Bunyan): This allegorical novel uses Christian's journey to the Celestial City as a metaphor for the Christian journey of faith and salvation. The story is not about a literal journey, but a symbolic representation of the spiritual struggle.
In summary, classical allegories are not realistic fiction because they prioritize symbolic representation, abstract ideas, and a moral or spiritual message over the depiction of everyday life and human experience.