* Political satire: In societies with strict censorship or where criticism of the government is frowned upon, an author could use allegory to satirize political figures or policies without risking direct confrontation. Think of Animal Farm, where Orwell uses animals to represent the Russian Revolution.
* Social commentary: Authors might use allegory to criticize social norms, prejudices, or inequalities without facing backlash from those in power or the public. For example, The Handmaid's Tale uses a dystopian future to critique patriarchal societies and the suppression of women.
* Religious criticism: Allegory can allow authors to express their views on religion or religious institutions without directly attacking them. For example, Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels satirizes the religious practices and beliefs of his time.
* Forbidden love: In societies with strict social norms, authors could use allegory to explore themes of forbidden love or relationships without directly violating those norms. Think of Romeo and Juliet, where the lovers' families represent feuding factions.
It's important to remember that allegory can be a double-edged sword. While it can help authors avoid direct censorship, it can also be interpreted in unintended ways, leading to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of an allegory in keeping an author out of trouble depends on the context, the reader's interpretation, and the political climate of the time.