In which type of literary analysis would you examine an author's use of symbolism?

In thematic analysis, the focus is on exploring the underlying themes and messages present in a literary work. Symbolism is an essential tool that authors use to convey deeper meanings and connect themes within their narratives. By examining the symbols an author employs, you can uncover how these symbols contribute to the overall themes of the work.

For example, a recurring symbol might represent a significant concept such as love, loss, or freedom, which invites the reader to consider its broader implications within the context of the story. This kind of analysis allows for a richer understanding of the text, as it reveals how the author's choices in using symbolism enhance the thematic depth and can provoke thought or convey emotion.

In contrast, other types of analysis, such as character, structural, and linguistic analyses, focus on different aspects of the text. Character analysis examines individual characters’ development and relationships, structural analysis looks at the organization and form of the work, and linguistic analysis delves into the language and style used by the author. While these approaches are valuable, they do not specifically center on the author's use of symbolism in relation to the themes of the narrative.