Symbolism of the Doves

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The Symbolism of the Doves in The Time of the Doves

In novels, symbolism is often used to enhance the meaning of a story. By using a specific symbol to represent a person, an idea, emotion, or an event, the reader is able to get more out of the true meaning of the work, and perhaps, understand more fully the intent of the author. In the novel The Time of the Doves, written by Mercé Rodoreda, the main symbol is the doves. This symbol is used as a negative representative, mirroring different people, events, and emotions through out the novel. Usually, a symbol is consistent in its meaning, however, in this novel, the meaning changes according to context. The severity of the doves and the situation they represent, and how they affect those around them, increase as the novel progresses.

The first time the doves are introduced in the novel was a few months after Quimet and Colemeta had been married. It dove appeared on their balcony with a broken wing, half dead, and bloody. At first, everyone had different reactions to the bird. Quimet was fascinated by it and wanted to keep it. Colometa, saw