Zoomorphism as a Literary Device

Zoomorphism: Etymology, Literal and Conceptual Meanings

Zoomorphism, a term prevalent in diverse academic fields, denotes the attribution of animal forms or characteristics to deities, humans, or inanimate objects. Etymologically, it originates from the Greek words “zōon” (ζῷον), meaning “animal,” and “morphē” (μορφή), signifying “form” or “shape.” This compound term, emerging in the mid-19th century, fundamentally denotes the “animal form.” However, its implications extend beyond mere literal representation.

Type of Meaning	Definition
Literal	The depiction of a being or object in the physical shape of an animal or with readily identifiable animalistic features.
Conceptual	The symbolic association of animal traits with non-animal entities, often conveying specific qualities or attributes not inherently present in the original entity.

Conceptually, zoomorphism transcends literal depiction, delving into the symbolic realm where animal attributes are imbued with deeper meanings. For instance, the depiction of a deity with a leonine head symbolizes valor and dominance, while a figure adorned with avian wings represents liberation and spiritual ascension. Thus, zoomorphism serves as a multifaceted instrument for articulating complex concepts through the potent imagery of the animal kingdom. Its utilization allows for a nuanced exploration of the human condition and the natural world, making it a valuable tool in artistic expression, religious iconography, and literary symbolism.

Zoomorphism: Definition as a Literary Device

Zoomorphism, as a literary device, transcends mere animalistic imagery by imbuing non-animal entities with animal traits, thus creating a rich tapestry of symbolic associations that deepen characterization and enhance thematic exploration. Through the skillful application of zoomorphism, authors can unveil the primal instincts lurking beneath the veneer of human civilization, drawing parallels between human behavior and the animal world to expose underlying motivations and societal structures. Moreover, by strategically assigning animalistic qualities to inanimate objects or abstract concepts, writers can infuse their narratives with a visceral energy that resonates with readers on a subconscious level, eliciting emotional responses and fostering a deeper understanding of the underlying message.

Types of Zoomorphism

Type of Zoomorphism	Definition	Example
Anthropomorphic Zoomorphism	Assigning human characteristics to animals.	The characters in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” exhibit human-like behavior and motivations.
Therianthropic Zoomorphism	Blending human and animal features in a single being.	The Egyptian god Anubis has the head of a jackal and the body of a man.
Symbolic Zoomorphism	Using animal traits to represent abstract concepts or qualities.	The dove is often used as a symbol of peace, while the serpent is often used to represent temptation or evil.
Metaphorical Zoomorphism	Comparing humans or objects to animals to highlight specific traits or behaviors.	Describing someone as “sly as a fox” or “brave as a lion.”
Allegorical Zoomorphism	Using animal characters to represent human types or societal issues.	Aesop’s fables often feature animal characters who teach moral lessons through their actions.

Features of Zoomorphism

The key features of zoomorphism as a literary device include:

1. Attribution of Animal Traits: The most fundamental feature is assigning animalistic characteristics, behaviors, or qualities to non-animal entities, such as humans, objects, or abstract concepts.
2. Symbolism and Metaphor: Zoomorphism often functions as a symbolic or metaphorical tool, where the animal attributes represent deeper meanings, themes, or traits that extend beyond the literal animal form.
3. Characterization: Zoomorphic descriptions can provide insightful commentary on a character’s personality, motivations, or social status. By associating a character with a specific animal, authors can reveal hidden aspects of their nature or emphasize their dominant traits.
4. Thematic Exploration: Zoomorphism can be employed to explore complex themes related to human nature, societal structures, or the relationship between humans and the natural world. By drawing parallels between human behavior and the animal kingdom, writers can delve into universal truths and societal issues.
5. Visceral Imagery: The use of animal imagery can evoke strong emotional responses and create a more vivid reading experience. By tapping into the primal instincts associated with animals, authors can engage readers on a subconscious level and leave a lasting impression.
6. Cultural Significance: Zoomorphism often draws upon cultural associations and archetypal symbolism related to specific animals. These cultural references can enrich the narrative and create a deeper connection with readers who share similar cultural backgrounds.
7. Versatility: Zoomorphism can be applied across various literary genres, from fables and fairy tales to poetry and novels. Its adaptability allows writers to tailor the use of animal imagery to suit the specific needs of their narrative and target audience.

Zoomorphism in Literature: Examples

1. Animal Farm (George Orwell): The entire narrative is an allegorical zoomorphism, with farm animals representing different figures and classes in the Russian Revolution. The pigs, for example, embody the corrupt leaders, while the horses represent the dedicated working class.
2. The Metamorphosis (Franz Kafka): Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a giant insect is a stark example of zoomorphism, exploring themes of alienation, isolation, and the dehumanization of the individual.
3. The Jungle Book (Rudyard Kipling): Mowgli, a human child raised by wolves, embodies the concept of therianthropy, blurring the lines between human and animal identity.
4. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (Lewis Carroll): The White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, and the Caterpillar are anthropomorphized animals that contribute to the fantastical and nonsensical world of Wonderland.
5. The Lord of the Flies (William Golding): The pig’s head on a stick, referred to as the “Lord of the Flies,” symbolizes the primal savagery that emerges within the boys when societal constraints are removed.
6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar (Eric Carle): The caterpillar, as the protagonist, undergoes a transformative journey, symbolizing growth, change, and the potential for metamorphosis.
7. Aesop’s Fables: Many of Aesop’s fables utilize zoomorphism to teach moral lessons. For example, “The Tortoise and the Hare” uses the slow and steady tortoise to emphasize the importance of perseverance.
8. The Wind in the Willows (Kenneth Grahame): The animal characters, such as Toad, Mole, Ratty, and Badger, represent different human personalities and social classes, providing commentary on friendship, adventure, and the importance of home.
9. The Chronicles of Narnia (C.S. Lewis): Aslan, the lion, is a Christ-like figure, symbolizing courage, sacrifice, and redemption.
10. The Call of the Wild (Jack London): Buck, the protagonist, undergoes a transformation from a domesticated pet to a wild sled dog, embracing his primal instincts and adapting to the harsh realities of the Alaskan wilderness.

Zoomorphism in Literature: Shakespearean Examples

1. Bottom as an Ass in A Midsummer Night’s Dream: In Act III, Scene I, Puck transforms Bottom’s head into that of an ass. This literal zoomorphism serves as a source of comedy, highlighting the absurdity of love and the blurring of lines between the human and animal worlds.
2. The Serpent in Macbeth: The serpent is a recurring symbol associated with deception and evil throughout the play. Lady Macbeth urges Macbeth to be “the serpent under’t” to hide his murderous intentions.
3. Animal Imagery in Othello: Iago frequently uses animalistic language to dehumanize Othello, referring to him as a “Barbary horse” and an “old black ram,” thus fueling racial prejudice and suspicion.
4. The Bear in The Winter’s Tale: Antigonus is pursued and killed by a bear, symbolizing the destructive power of jealousy and the harshness of nature.
5. Birds in King Lear: The Fool often uses bird metaphors to comment on the actions of the characters, comparing them to crows, owls, and other birds, thus providing insightful commentary on the play’s themes.
6. The Lion in Richard II: Richard compares himself to a lion, symbolizing his royal power and authority, but later, as his power diminishes, he laments being “an unking’d king” and a “mockery king of snow.”
7. The Serpent and the Dove in Romeo and Juliet: Friar Lawrence compares Romeo to a “young waverer” who flies between the “white wonder of dear Juliet’s hand” (the dove) and “the rank poison of the old grudge” (the serpent), highlighting the conflicting forces of love and hate.
8. The Dogs in Julius Caesar: Mark Antony uses the metaphor of Caesar’s blood crying out to the “dumb mouths” of his wounds, which are likened to “dogs,” to incite the crowd’s anger against the conspirators.
9. The Serpent’s Tongue in Hamlet: Claudius’s poisoning of King Hamlet through his ear is described as a “leprous distilment” poured into “the porches of my ears,” evoking the imagery of a venomous serpent.
10. The Wolf in The Merchant of Venice: Shylock is dehumanized and compared to a wolf by the Christian characters, reflecting the prevalent anti-Semitism of the time.

Zoomorphism in Literature: Relevance in Literary Theories

Literary Theory	Explanation	Example
Psychoanalytic Theory	Zoomorphism reflects unconscious desires, fears, and instincts.	In The Metamorphosis, Gregor Samsa’s transformation into an insect symbolizes his repressed anxieties and alienation.
Structuralism	Zoomorphism reveals binary oppositions (human/animal, culture/nature) and underlying societal structures.	In Romantic literature, noble savage animals critique civilized society and advocate a return to nature.
Ecocriticism	Zoomorphism highlights the interconnectedness of humans and nature, challenging anthropocentric views.	In The Call of the Wild, Buck’s transformation into a wild dog emphasizes the importance of ecological balance and respect for nature.

Zoomorphism in Literature: Relevant Terms

Device	Definition
Anthropomorphism	The attribution of human characteristics, emotions, or behavior to animals or inanimate objects.
Personification	A figure of speech in which inanimate objects or abstract concepts are endowed with human qualities or actions.
Simile	A figure of speech comparing two unlike things using “like” or “as.”
Metaphor	A figure of speech comparing two unlike things without using “like” or “as.”
Allegory	A story, poem, orpicture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Symbolism	The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.
Fable	A short story, typically with animals as characters, conveying a moral.
Myth	A traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.
Parable	A simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels.
Animal Imagery	The use of vivid descriptions and figurative language to create a mental picture of an animal.

Zoomorphism in Literature: Suggested Readings

1. Armstrong, Philip. What Animals Mean in the Fiction of Modernity. Routledge, 2008. https://www.routledge.com/What-Animals-Mean-in-the-Fiction-of-Modernity/Armstrong/p/book/9780415358392
2. Baker, Steve. Picturing the Beast: Animals, Identity, and Representation. University of Illinois Press, 2001. https://www.press.uillinois.edu/books/?id=p070303
3. Clark, Gillian. Animal, Vegetable, Mineral: Ethics and Objects. Reaktion Books, 2014.
4. DeMello, Margo. Animals and Society: An Introduction to Human-Animal Studies. Columbia University Press, 2012. http://cup.columbia.edu/book/animals-and-society/9780231194853
5. Salisbury, Joyce E. The Beast Within: Animals in the Middle Ages. Routledge, 2012. https://www.routledge.com/The-Beast-Within-Animals-in-the-Middle-Ages/Salisbury/p/book/9781032149493