English STAAR Practice Test 2026 – The All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The practice of using an object to represent something else is known as symbolism. In literature and art, symbolism allows writers and artists to convey deeper meanings and themes through specific objects, colors, or figures that stand in for abstract ideas or concepts. For example, a dove is often used as a symbol of peace, while a heart may represent love.

Symbolism enriches the narrative and engages readers by encouraging them to look beyond the surface and explore the underlying messages. It adds layers of meaning that can enhance emotional responses and provoke thought.

The other options refer to different literary devices. Simile is a comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as," while metaphor makes a direct comparison without those words. Figurative language encompasses a broader category, which includes various devices like similes, metaphors, and symbolism itself. However, symbolism specifically focuses on the representational aspect, which is why it is the correct answer in this context.