the symbolic use of hunger in literature

the symbolic use of hunger in literature Throughout history, both men and women have struggled trying to achieve unattainable goals in the face of close-minded societies. Authors have often used this theme to develop stories of characters that face obstacles and are sometimes unable to overcome the stigma that is attached to them. This inability to rise above prejudice is many times illustrated with the metaphor of hunger. Not only do people suffer from physical …

…characters that have been discussed tried to appease their cravings for the things in life that they longed for: independence, social mobility, family, rights, etc. The battle was an arduous one for all, and, for many, ended in tragedy. The symbolic use of hunger as a means to explicate the longings of these characters is an effective one, which has been used many times in literature because it is a feeling everyone can relate to.