What literary device uses specific objects or actions to represent larger concepts?

Symbolism is the literary device that employs specific objects, actions, or characters to signify larger concepts or ideas beyond their literal meaning. Through symbolism, writers can convey complex themes and emotions in a more nuanced manner. For example, a dove is often used as a symbol of peace, while a rose might symbolize love or beauty. This device allows readers to engage with the text on a deeper level, as they can explore the connections between the tangible elements in the story and the broader themes they represent.

In contrast, irony involves a discrepancy between expectation and reality, whether through verbal, situational, or dramatic means. Metaphor, on the other hand, directly compares two unrelated things by stating that one is the other, while allegory extends this concept over a whole narrative, where characters and events symbolize broader moral or political meanings. While these literary devices are all valuable tools in writing, symbolism specifically highlights the use of concrete items to express abstract ideas.