Symbolism and Coherence: Harry Potter and the Magic of Symbolism in the Narrative

Abstract

This study investigates the use of symbolism in the Harry Potter novels. The thesis attempts to prove that symbolism lies at the core of the coherence of the seven novels, by answering the question: how does symbolism manifest itself and contribute to the coherence of the narrative in the Harry Potter novels? The study researches the occurrences of symbolism throughout the novels and finds patterns in the themes and the ways that they occur. The research concludes that symbolism may be found on various levels and can have different effects and meaning. It also finds that the symbolism influences the coherence that is present across the seven books, by showing that it is a core feature of repetition and foreshadowing, which, in turn, create coherence. Thus, the study concludes that symbolism in these books influences the coherence of them.