Symbols in The Secret Life of Bees
A symbol is an object which is used to represent something else which gives it a meaning beyond the
literal. Usually this is something abstract like an idea, a quality or an emotion.
The Secret Life of Bees is rich with symbolism. As you read the novel, keep track of the symbols
mentioned by providing pages and examples. At the end, summarize their meaning based on the
collection of examples from throughout the novel.
Symbol
Bees
Bee Hive
*see Ch. 8
activity
Queen Bee
Water
Rocks
The Black
Madonna
Mother’s
Belongings:
gloves, Photo,
black Madonna
Page references
Summary of Meaning