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Allegory Project
Definition:
Allegory - a literary, dramatic, or pictorial representation with two levels of meaning. One level provides a
literal, and seemingly superficial meaning, but a second level reveals a deeper, symbolic meaning. Each of the characters in Of Mice
and Men symbolizes a group in society.
Part 1: Me Tree: Use the back of this assignment sheet for part 1.
1.
2.
3.
4.
You are going to construct a pictorial allegory, which is a visual way to convey an allegorical story.
Trace one of your hands (with fingers spread out) and wrists (up to your forearms).
Draw leaves on your tree (with room to write a word in each leaf). You need at least 10 leaves.
Brainstorm a list of interests, traits, roles, and dreams. A sample list may include items such as reading, basketball, organized,
shy, daughter, friend, sister, college, and doctor. Write the words you thought of in each leaf.
5. Answer the questions below:
“Me Tree” Reflection Questions
1.
In what way does the “Me Tree” fit the characteristics of an allegory?
2.
Why is a tree a fitting symbol to represent a person?
3.
In what ways are your traits, interests, and roles like the leaves on a tree?
4.
If you were to make a “Me Tree” next year, would it look the same as the one you just made? What would its likely
differences and similarities be?
5.
In what ways are the “Me Trees” allegorical?
6.
What symbols did they use?
7.
What two levels of meaning do the pictures they created represent?
Part 2: Literary Analysis Practice: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
1.
2.
Read the children’s story, The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.
Answer the following questions:
1. What is the literal meaning of the story? (In other words, what is the story about?)
2.
What is The Giving Tree an allegory of? (This is your opinion; think about what it could represent on a symbolic level)
3.
Using your answer from question 2 write down what each object in the story represents:
Tree:
Boy:
The tree’s sacrifice:
The boy’s requests:
Happiness:
Part 3: Of Mice and Men Connection
1. Create a 8.5 x 11 poster with the following information: for each of the character listed below explain what he or
she represents in society. Find or draw a picture (symbol) for each character.
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

Lennie
George
Curley


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Candy
The Boss
Curley’s wife


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Carlson
Crooks
Slim
2. Write a paragraph explaining how Of Mice and Men is an allegory. The topic sentence should state the title of the
work and something about the ranch being a miniature model of society. The paragraph should include two
characters and what they symbolize, with analysis. 6-10 sentences in length. Must be typed.