“A Rose For Emily” Symbolism

“A Rose For Emily”

Traditionally, authors use symbolism as a way to represent the intangible qualities of the characters, places, and events in their writings. In his short story "A Rose for Emily," William Faulkner uses symbolism to compare the Grierson house with Emily Grierson's physical deterioration, her shift in social standing, and her reluctance to accept change.
When compared chronologically, the Grierson house is used to symbolize Miss Emily's physical attributes. In its prime, the Grierson house is described as "white, decorated with cupolas, spires, and scrolled balconies in the heavily lightsome style of the seventies" (Faulkner 315). This description suggests that the house is built not only for function, but also to impress and engage the attention of the other townspeople. Similarly, the wealthy women of the era, Emily Grierson not withstanding, were dressed in a conspicuous manner. This is because their appearance was perceived as a direct refle...