What is an allegory?

An allegory is defined as a narrative in which characters, events, and settings symbolize deeper moral, philosophical, or political ideas, effectively conveying a greater meaning beyond the literal one. This literary device allows authors to comment on real-world issues and human experiences through symbolic storytelling.

In allegories, the plot often parallels significant themes, enabling readers to draw connections between the fictional storyline and various societal themes or moral questions. For example, George Orwell's "Animal Farm" serves as an allegory for the Russian Revolution, with various animals representing historical figures and ideologies.

The other options do not encapsulate the essence of allegory. A purely fictional story aligns more with narrative fiction without thematic depth, poetry focuses specifically on a genre that can express emotions or ideas through structured verse, and a character-driven plot emphasizes the development and motivations of characters rather than the symbolic nature of the narrative itself. Thus, the characterization of an allegory as a narrative where characters and events symbolize broader concepts and themes accurately captures its purpose and function in literature.