Name: _______________________________________________
The Minister’s Black Veil – Allegory, Parable, and Characterization
An allegory is a literary work in which characters, events, settings, and other story
elements are symbolic to something else. A parable is a story that teaches morals or
lessons.
Directions: While reading, find descriptions of the given elements and think of their
possible symbolic meanings; record your findings/thoughts in the chart below.
Story element/Evidence. Find and record text
describing the element—cite your quote! (pg#).
Black veil
Symbolism (analyze your evidence…what might the
element be symbolic of?)
Pale-faced congregation
Elizabeth
Mirrors
What might the lesson/moral of this parable be? Explain your answer
Direct/Indirect Characterization
Directions: While reading, find examples direct and indirect characterization for Mr. Hooper.
Record your findings in the chart below, and cite your quote. For indirect, briefly explain
how the quotes characterizes Mr. Hooper.
Mr. Cooper
Direct Characterization (quotes)
Indirect Characterization (quotes +
explanation)