Name: ______________________________
Miss Jordan
English 11 – Period _____
Date: ____________________
Fahrenheit 451
Universal Symbols
A symbol is an object or action that stands for something else. A universal symbol has
universally recognizable meanings. For example, a sword symbolizes war and the woman with
the blindfold represents justice. Understanding universal symbols and the color they add to the
text enriches your reading experience. As you seek universal symbols in Fahrenheit 451,
consider how they contribute to characterization, theme, conflict, and resolution.
Directions: Complete the chart with examples of universal symbols from the novel.
Universal Symbol
Represents…
In Fahrenheit 451…
Light and dark
good and evil
Example: Clarisse and Faber,
representing truth and knowledge,
are associated with images of light
while Mildred, Beatty, and the
firemen, representing oppression
and ignorance, are surrounded
with dark images.
Fire
increased activity, rapid decisions
required
Hearth
home, warmth, sacred fire
Phoenix
fire and rebirth, immortality
Universal Symbol
Represents…
Salamander
“king of fire,” temptation, burning
desire
In Fahrenheit 451…