Symbolism in Famous Works

[Lip Service]

Didn't know that but it seems that much of the story behind "The Wizard of Oz" was the concern of moving away from the gold standard,

http://voices.yahoo.com/political-symbolism-the-wizard-oz-book-movi...

  

[Ursula]

I actually remember discussing this in an American Studies class at Cal State Fullerton.  Of course, until I saw your post I had forgotten all about it.  Children's stories are not always what they seem.

[Carci]

How interesting.  It all seems to fit.  I guess political upheaval has always been with us.

[Apposite]

From what I've read, some have said it was supposed to parody Lincoln, his cabinet, and the issues of slavery. I don't know how much truth there is to that but one can probably parody any kind of political issue and situation in any given era with the "Wizard of Oz" story. -  Good topic post Lip Service!

[officerripley]

Yes, very interesting topic, thanks.  I remember back in the 60s there being college classes taught on the hidden meanings of The Lord of the Rings; it was about World War 1; no World War 2; no wait it was about the period betw. the 2 wars; the elves were supposed to represent the royalty, no wait it was the French; Rohan was the Americans, and of course Mordor was the Nazis.  And one philosophy class I took back in the early 70s spent a whole class talking about the meaning of one Star Trek episode.  Kind of interesting and fun to do.

[Mandy Muffin]

Here is the quote from William Jennings Bryant:  "You shall not crucify mankind upon a cross of gold." Considered one of the great orators in the history of our country, this is considered the finest speech ever given by a politician:  http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/5354 

Symbolism in literature is a tool that has been used over the years, especially in fantasy novels.  I imagine there will be books written interpreting "A Game of Thrones" that I am current in the midst of reading, covering seven book and thousands of characters in  a myriad of subplots.  Here is an 81 page guide to the epic story:  http://www.bookrags.com/studyguide-game-of-thrones/objectsplaces.html