What does an allegory typically represent in literature?

An allegory typically represents a story with a double meaning, often conveying moral, ethical, or political messages. In literature, allegories employ characters, events, and details that can be interpreted on more than one level. For instance, the surface narrative may present a simple story, while the underlying meaning can reflect complex themes or social critiques. Famous examples of allegorical works include George Orwell's "Animal Farm," which critiques totalitarianism through the story of farm animals, and John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress," which illustrates the moral journey of a Christian believer.

The other options do not capture the essence of allegory as clearly. A plot twist refers to unexpected events in a story rather than a dual meaning. A single straightforward meaning contrasts with the layered interpretations of allegory. While characters that symbolize real figures can be a part of allegorical narratives, they do not encompass the broader concept of allegory, which is much more about the dual meanings embedded within the overall narrative structure.