A White Heron Symbolism

Introduction

A White Heron is this cool short story by Sarah Orne Jewett that came out way back in 1886. It’s about this young girl, Sylvia, living out in the countryside with her grandma. One day she bumps into a hunter looking for a rare bird called the white heron. The story’s packed with symbolism, and all these different elements mean more than what they seem at first glance. This essay’s gonna dig into the symbols in A White Heron and why they matter when it comes to themes like nature, innocence, and those tough moral choices.

The White Heron's Symbolism

The white heron isn’t just any bird; it stands for nature and purity. The hunter? He’s super interested in finding it 'cause it’s rare and beautiful. But the heron symbolizes the untouched beauty of nature—way different from the hunter’s urge to own it. For Sylvia, spotting this bird becomes a real dilemma: should she spill the beans about its location or keep it safe?

Nature as a Symbol

The story takes place in this natural setting with lush forests and peaceful countryside vibes. It symbolizes pure and simple country life. Sylvia’s got this deep bond with nature; you see it as she explores the woods and hangs out with animals. Nature’s kinda like her happy place, showing how being one with the environment can bring balance and peace.

Symbolism of Innocence

Sylvia really embodies innocence and that youthful naivety. Meeting the hunter puts her face-to-face with adult stuff like complicated moral choices. The white heron is basically a test of her innocence—should she help the hunter or protect the bird? In making her choice, we see her grow and start understanding more about life around her.

Conclusion

The symbols in A White Heron really add depth to the whole narrative. Through things like the white heron, nature, and innocence, Sarah Orne Jewett digs deep into themes about moral decisions and how humans clash with nature sometimes. It's a timeless reminder of why it's important to keep nature pure and beautiful while acknowledging our responsibilities.

References

• Jewett, S.O. (1886). A White Heron. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.
• Bauer, M.L., & Lewis, R.W.B. (1994). The American tradition in literature (10th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.
• Martin, W.R. (1961). Sarah Orne Jewett's "A White Heron": A Reading Guide. Studies in Short Fiction.
• Benson, S.H., & Glasser, D.A. (1981). Our Land of America: American Literature for Today's Reader.
• Poirier, R.P., & Comley N.D.. (1977). "The Image of Nature". The Norton Anthology of American Literature.