Marigolds, the short story by Eugenia W. Collier has been read by students and critics alike for decades. The story is evocative, and has managed to resonate with readers of all ages. Part of what draws people to this story is the enigmatic symbol of the marigolds that set the backdrop for the tale. But what do the marigolds symbolize in the Story Marigolds?
For some readers, the marigolds symbolize hope. They are a metaphor for the idea that even in the bleakest of situations, a glimmer of hope can emerge. This is evident when Lizabeth, the main character, destroys Miss Lottie’s marigold garden, in an attempt to vent her frustrations. Later, she realizes the depth of her actions and the potential for renewal that lay inside the marigold seeds that had spilled out. Thus, the marigolds in the story come to represent a possibility for revitalization and hope at the end of a long, difficult journey.
For others, the marigolds symbolize the transience and fragility of life. In this view, the marigolds represent the beautiful moments that are fleeting and quick to pass. The marigolds in the story are never named, yet they become a recurring symbol throughout, representing the constant reminder of how fleeting life’s joyful moments truly are. For Lizabeth, the marigolds are a sign of life’s fleeting beauty, and the only way she can deal with the realization that those joyful moments may never return is by destroying them.
Historical Significance of Marigolds in Various Cultures
The marigold flower has been revered for its cultural and religious significance in various parts of the world. Here are some examples:
- In Mexico, marigolds are a crucial part of the Day of the Dead celebration. The Aztecs believed marigolds helped guide souls to the afterlife, and their bright color is used to attract and honor the spirits of the deceased.
- In Hinduism, marigolds are considered auspicious and are often used in religious ceremonies and decorations. They symbolize purity, happiness, and good luck.
- In ancient Greece, marigolds were woven into garlands and offered to the gods and goddesses as a symbol of their love and devotion.
As for the story “Marigolds” by Eugenia W. Collier, the author uses the flower as a symbol for hope and resilience in the face of hardship. The marigolds represent the hope that Lizabeth and her family cling to, despite their poverty and struggles.
The historical and cultural significance of marigolds is also evident in their medicinal uses. They have been traditionally used as a remedy for various ailments, including skin inflammation, digestive issues, and respiratory problems. In modern times, marigold extract is commonly used in skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
| Culture | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Mexico | Spiritual guide, remembrance of the dead |
| Hinduism | Purity, happiness, good luck |
| Ancient Greece | Love, devotion |
Whether used for religious, cultural, or medicinal purposes, the marigold remains a beloved and significant flower in various parts of the world.
Symbolism of Flowers in Literature
Flowers have been used as symbols in literature for centuries, representing various themes and emotions. In the story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier, the marigold flower serves as a powerful symbol of hope, endurance, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
What Do the Marigolds Symbolize in the Story Marigolds?
- In the story “Marigolds”, the marigold flower symbolizes hope and beauty amidst the ugliness and despair of poverty and racism.
- The marigolds also represent endurance and resilience, as they are able to survive and thrive in harsh conditions.
- For the main character, Lizabeth, the marigolds symbolize her desire to escape her impoverished and oppressive circumstances and find beauty and hope in the world.
The Importance of Flower Symbolism in Literature
Flowers are used as symbols in literature to convey complex emotions and themes in a relatable and accessible way. They evoke feelings of beauty, grace, fragility, and temporality, and can represent a range of ideas from love and joy to death and decay.
Flower symbolism in literature has its roots in ancient myths and legends, where flowers were believed to possess magical or supernatural powers. This tradition continued in medieval and Renaissance literature, where flower symbolism was used to represent virtues, morals, and allegorical concepts.
A Table of Flower Symbolism in Literature
Here is a table of some of the most common flower symbols in literature:
| Flower | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Rose | Love, beauty, passion |
| Lily | Purity, innocence, virtue |
| Daisy | Hope, simplicity, new beginnings |
| Pansy | Thoughtfulness, remembrance |
| Poppy | Death, sleep, forgetfulness |
Flower symbolism in literature is a rich tradition that continues to inspire writers and readers alike. From the marigolds in “Marigolds” to the roses in Shakespeare’s sonnets, flowers offer a powerful and evocative language of emotion and meaning in literature.
Development of the protagonist in “Marigolds”
“Marigolds” is a short story written by Eugenia W. Collier about a young girl named Lizabeth who grows up in a poverty-stricken African American community during the Great Depression. Throughout the story, Lizabeth’s character undergoes a significant transformation as she struggles to come to terms with the harsh realities of life.
- Immaturity and innocence: At the beginning of the story, Lizabeth is portrayed as a carefree and innocent young girl who enjoys playing with her friends and wreaking havoc around the neighborhood. She is naive and unaware of the struggles that her parents and other adults around her face on a daily basis.
- Growing awareness: Lizabeth’s world is turned upside down when she witnesses her father’s frustration and anger at their financial struggles. This serves as a wake-up call for Lizabeth, who realizes for the first time that life is not always fair. She becomes acutely aware of the poverty and hopelessness that surround her and begins to question the purpose of her existence.
- Maturity and acceptance: The turning point in Lizabeth’s character development comes when she destroys Miss Lottie’s marigolds. This act reflects Lizabeth’s frustration and anger at the unfairness of life, but it also serves as a moment of profound growth and realization. In destroying the flowers, Lizabeth destroys her own innocence and realizes that life is not black and white. The final paragraph of the story reveals that Lizabeth has grown up, accepting the bitter truth of life with acceptance and maturity.
Symbolism of the Marigolds
The marigolds in “Marigolds” symbolize innocence, beauty, and hope. Miss Lottie’s marigold garden represents a small beacon of light and beauty in the otherwise bleak and hopeless environment of Lizabeth’s world. For Lizabeth, the marigolds represent a reminder of the beauty and innocence of childhood, and she cannot bear to see Miss Lottie’s garden destroyed. At the same time, the marigolds represent Lizabeth’s own innocence and hope for a better future. When Lizabeth destroys the flowers, she destroys her own hope and innocence, but she also gains a deeper understanding of the complexities of life.
The Importance of Setting and Point of View
The setting of “Marigolds” plays an important role in shaping the story and the development of Lizabeth’s character. The poverty-stricken African American community of the Great Depression provides a harsh backdrop for the story, emphasizing the struggles and hopelessness of Lizabeth’s world. The point of view, which is first person and told from an adult Lizabeth’s perspective, adds an additional layer of complexity to the story. The adult Lizabeth’s reflections on her past provide a sense of maturity and context to the story, while also hinting at the possibility of redemption and growth.
Conclusion:
“Marigolds” is a powerful story about the struggles of growing up in poverty and the importance of maturity and acceptance in the face of harsh realities. Lizabeth’s character development, symbolized by the marigolds, reflects the struggles and complexities of growing up. The story is a reminder of the importance of hope and beauty in even the bleakest of environments, and of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
The theme of hopelessness in the story:
One of the central themes of the story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier is hopelessness. The story takes place during the Great Depression, a time of widespread poverty and desperation, which exacerbates the feeling of hopelessness among the characters.
- The main character, Lizabeth, feels hopeless about her future and that of her family. She does not see a way out of her poverty and does not believe that her dreams of a better life will ever come true.
- Lizabeth’s mother also embodies the theme of hopelessness. She is depressed and lethargic, unable to find joy in anything and resigned to her fate.
- Miss Lottie, the elderly woman who grows the marigolds, also represents hopelessness. She is bitter and angry about her life and takes out her frustrations on her garden, which is the only thing she has left.
Overall, the hopelessness in the story speaks to the larger theme of the American Dream and its shortcomings. Despite the belief that hard work and determination will lead to success, the reality of poverty can be suffocating and make it nearly impossible to see a way out.
Ultimately, the theme of hopelessness is represented by the marigolds themselves. The marigolds are a symbol of hope and happiness, yet in the story, they are wilted and trampled by Lizabeth and her friends. This represents the loss of hope and beauty in the characters’ lives.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Marigolds | Hope and happiness |
| Wilted marigolds | Loss of hope and beauty |
| Miss Lottie’s Garden | The only thing left that brings her joy |
In conclusion, the theme of hopelessness is a powerful one in the story “Marigolds.” It highlights the challenges of poverty and the limitations of the American Dream. The symbols of the marigolds and Miss Lottie’s garden serve to reinforce this theme and underscore the impact of hopelessness on the characters’ lives.
The impact of poverty on the setting of the story
The short story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier is set in the Great Depression era, where poverty is rampant and opportunities are scarce. The setting plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and their actions, and poverty casts a shadow over their lives.
- Physical setting. The story takes place in a shantytown on the outskirts of a small town in Maryland. The houses are small, ramshackle structures made of cardboard, tin, and whatever materials the residents could find. The lack of basic amenities such as running water, electricity, and sanitation adds to the sense of squalor and desperation.
- Emotional setting. Poverty creates a pervasive sense of hopelessness and despair. The characters in the story are resigned to their situation, unable to imagine a better life. They are burdened by the daily struggle for survival, which leaves little room for dreams or aspirations. This emotional setting is reflected in the bleak and desolate landscape, which is devoid of color and life.
- Symbolism. The marigolds in the story represent a brief moment of beauty and hope amidst the poverty and squalor. The protagonist Lizabeth is initially drawn to the flowers because they are a reminder of the beauty that once existed in her world. However, her act of destroying the marigolds symbolizes the destructive nature of poverty and the sense of powerlessness that accompanies it.
Poverty impacts the characters in different ways. Lizabeth, the protagonist, grapples with the contradictions of her world, and the marigolds become a way for her to reconcile her feelings of anger, frustration, and hopelessness. For her parents and the other adults in the story, poverty manifests as a sense of defeat and resignation. They have accepted their fate and see no way out of their situation.
The impact of poverty on the setting of the story is central to its themes and message. It highlights the human cost of economic inequality and scarcity, and shows how poverty can strip individuals of their agency and dignity. The story is a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and social justice, and emphasizes the need for resilient and cohesive communities in times of hardship.
Effects of the Great Depression on rural communities
The Great Depression of the 1930s had a deep impact on rural communities, affecting the lives of farmers and their families. The challenges faced by these communities were many, including crop failures, droughts, and poverty. Although this time was characterized by difficult times, it led to a resurgence of cultural revival and political change. One of the most significant effects of the Great Depression on rural communities was reflected in the story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier. The setting of this story, a small, poor, rural African-American community, is a representation of the many similar communities that were affected by the Depression.
- Unemployment – The Great Depression caused widespread unemployment across the United States. Many farmers lost their jobs, as crop prices fell to extremely low levels, leading to a severe decline in rural economies. The lack of work led to significant poverty and a lack of resources, which we see reflected in the story of “Marigolds.”
- Farming communities destroyed – The inability to make a living from agriculture led to the collapse of many farming communities. This was due to both natural disasters such as the Dust Bowl, and the trend of industrialization throughout the United States. The destruction of farming communities caused the loss of entire ways of life, as well as an uprooting of families.
- Political change – As a result of the Depression, many rural communities became politically active. As people banded together to fight for their rights, they created organizations that were dedicated to fighting against the injustices imposed on them. The Civil Rights Movement was one such movement, which helped African-American farmers fight against segregation and injustice.
The story “Marigolds” is set in a small town in Virginia during the Depression era. The protagonist, Lizabeth, who is an adolescent at the time, describes the struggles her family and community face as a result of the severe economic conditions. The marigold flowers, which are described in detail throughout the story, reflect the simultaneous beauty and despair experienced by the characters. The marigolds are seen as a symbol of hope, but also as something that is ephemeral, much like human existence. In this way, the marigolds represent the fragility of life and how it is often colored with both beauty and sadness.
| Symbolism of Marigolds | What It Represents |
|---|---|
| The color yellow | The hope and joy in the midst of difficult circumstances |
| The wilted state of the flowers | The pain and struggle that the characters are experiencing |
| The destruction of the flowers | The symbolic death of hope in a difficult world |
In conclusion, the Depression era had a profound impact on rural communities, leading to significant changes in social and political life. The story of “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier is a powerful example of the effects of these changes on families and how symbols such as flowers can be used to represent the complex emotions involved in living through such difficult times.
Symbolism of destruction and growth in the story
The story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier is full of symbolism, particularly in regards to the themes of destruction and growth. Through the use of various symbolic elements, Collier effectively conveys the idea that growth cannot occur without first experiencing destruction.
One of the most significant symbols in the story is the marigold flowers themselves. The marigolds initially symbolize destruction in the story, representing the ugliness and despair that the protagonist, Lizabeth, feels towards her impoverished and difficult life. She and her brother, Joey, destroy the marigold garden belonging to Miss Lottie, a mentally ill woman who Lizabeth and her friends often taunt and bully. This act of destruction is representative of Lizabeth’s frustration with her own poverty and the sense of hopelessness that she feels about her future.
- However, as the story progresses, the marigolds also come to symbolize growth. After destroying the garden, Lizabeth feels immense guilt and regret, which motivates her to take action to repair the damage that she and Joey have done. She plants new marigold seeds in the garden, symbolizing her own desire for change and growth in her life.
- Furthermore, the fact that the marigolds actually grow and bloom despite the destruction that they experienced is itself a symbol of resilience and perseverance.
- Moreover, Lizabeth’s decision to plant the marigolds suggests that she is beginning to understand that growth cannot occur without first experiencing destruction. In destroying the garden and then working to repair it, she is metaphorically destroying the negative aspects of her life and creating the space for something new and positive to grow.
Another important symbol in the story is Miss Lottie’s house. The dilapidated and run-down appearance of the house serves as a metaphor for the difficult circumstances that Lizabeth and the other children in the neighborhood are forced to endure. However, the fact that Miss Lottie maintains a beautiful marigold garden in spite of her own poverty and mental illness is a symbol of hope and resilience.
The final symbol of destruction and growth in the story is the symbol of the mockingbird. Early in the story, Lizabeth and her friends kill a mockingbird, representing their own destructive and callous behavior. However, by the end of the story, Lizabeth hears the sound of another mockingbird singing, symbolizing the growth and renewal that is possible even after experiencing destruction and loss.
| Symbol | Representation |
|---|---|
| Marigolds | Destruction and growth |
| Miss Lottie’s House | Hope and resilience |
| Mockingbird | Destructive behavior and growth |
In conclusion, the symbolism of destruction and growth in “Marigolds” is a powerful and important aspect of the story. Through the use of marigolds, Miss Lottie’s house, and the mockingbird, Collier effectively conveys the idea that growth cannot occur without first experiencing destruction. Ultimately, this message serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of circumstances, there is always the possibility for growth and renewal.
The role of the narrator in the reader’s interpretation of the marigolds
In the short story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier, the narrator plays a crucial role in shaping how readers interpret the marigolds. The story is narrated by the protagonist, a 14-year-old African American girl named Lizabeth, who lives in a small town during the Great Depression. The narrative point of view gives readers insight into the main character’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. The narrator’s perspective on the marigolds helps readers understand the symbolic significance of the flowers and their role in the story.
- The narrator’s personal experience: Through Lizabeth’s narration, readers gain insight into her personal experience with the marigolds. She describes them as “a strange flower,” with “such a passion for growth and beauty.” This reflects her own inner turmoil and desire for beauty and hope amidst the poverty and despair around her. By sharing her own perspective, the narrator invites readers to consider their own relationship with the marigolds and what they might symbolize to them.
- The narrator’s emotional state: The narrator’s emotional state also influences how readers interpret the marigolds. Lizabeth is angry, frustrated, and confused throughout much of the story, which colors her perception of the flowers. At first, she sees them as a symbol of her mother’s hope and resilience in the face of poverty. But when she destroys them in a fit of rage, the marigolds take on a different meaning for her – one of loss and despair. This reflects how our emotions and mental state can shape our interpretation of symbols and events.
- The narrator’s growth and change: Finally, the narrator’s development throughout the story helps readers make sense of the marigolds’ symbolic significance. Lizabeth’s experience with the marigolds catalyzes a shift in her worldview and her relationship with herself and others. By the end of the story, she has gained a new sense of empathy and understanding, and sees the marigolds as a symbol of her own growth and transformation. This suggests that symbols can have multiple meanings and interpretations depending on our own personal evolution and growth.
In conclusion, the role of the narrator in “Marigolds” is instrumental in shaping how readers interpret the marigolds. By sharing her personal experience, emotional state, and growth, the narrator invites readers to reflect on their own relationships with the flowers and what they might symbolize to them. Through the symbolism of the marigolds, readers are encouraged to consider the transformative power of empathy, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Significance of the Setting in “Marigolds”
The short story “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier is set in a shantytown during the Great Depression in America. The story takes place in a small, impoverished African American community where life is tough and dreams seem impossible to achieve. The setting serves as a crucial element in the story as it reveals the characters’ struggles and desires. Here are some of the ways the setting impacts the story:
Number 9: Symbolism of Marigolds
- Marigolds are a symbol of hope and beauty in despair. They represent the possibility of growth, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. The protagonist Lizabeth comments, “the marigolds did not survive.” This is a metaphor for how the dreams and innocence of the characters are shattered by the harsh reality of their lives.
- Moreover, the marigolds symbolize the fleeting nature of beauty and joy. They are vibrant and colorful, but they wither and die quickly. Similarly, the characters’ moments of happiness are short-lived and overshadowed by the challenges they face.
- Lastly, the marigolds can also be interpreted as a symbol of Lizabeth’s maturity. At the beginning of the story, she destroys the marigolds out of frustration and anger. However, by the end, she realizes the value of beauty and hope, even if it is temporary.
In conclusion, the setting in “Marigolds” serves as a significant backdrop that symbolizes the characters’ struggles and desires. The marigolds represent the hope and beauty that can be found even in the toughest circumstances. However, they also serve as a reminder of how fragile our dreams and happiness can be.
Through the symbolism of the marigolds, Eugenia Collier highlights the importance of finding meaning and purpose in difficult times, despite the impermanence of beauty and joy.
Comparison of the Marigolds to Other Symbols in Literature
In literature, symbols are often used to represent certain ideas or concepts that are important to the story. Just like the marigolds in the story, many other symbols have been used in literature to convey similar ideas.
- The Phoenix: In mythology, the Phoenix is a bird that is known to rise from its ashes after it dies. It is often used as a symbol of rebirth and renewal.
- The Scarlet Letter: In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter, the scarlet letter A is a symbol of adultery and shame.
- The Green Light: In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the green light across the water from Gatsby’s mansion is a symbol of hope and his yearning for the past.
Just like the marigolds in the story represent the loss of innocence and the harsh realities of growing up, these other symbols also represent important themes in their respective works.
However, it is important to note that symbols can often have different meanings depending on the context in which they are used. While the marigolds in Marigolds represent one specific idea, other symbols can be interpreted in a multitude of ways.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Marigolds | The loss of innocence and the harsh realities of growing up. |
| The Phoenix | Rebirth and renewal. |
| The Scarlet Letter | Adultery and shame. |
| The Green Light | Hope and yearning for the past. |
The marigolds are just one example of how symbols can be used effectively in literature to convey important themes and ideas. These other symbols serve as a reminder that the use of symbolism in literature is a powerful tool that can add depth and meaning to a story.
What do the marigolds symbolize in the story “Marigolds”?
1. What are marigolds?
Marigolds are a type of flower that bloom in the summer months. They have bright orange or yellow petals and grow in small clusters.
2. What is the story “Marigolds” about?
The story “Marigolds” is a coming-of-age story about a young girl named Lizabeth who lives in a poor rural community in the 1930s. She struggles with her own feelings of anger and frustration as she witnesses the struggles of her parents and neighbors.
3. What is the significance of the marigolds in the story?
The marigolds in the story represent beauty and hope in the midst of poverty and despair. They are a symbol of the fragile innocence of childhood that is often lost when faced with the harsh realities of the adult world.
4. How do the marigolds relate to Lizabeth’s emotions?
For Lizabeth, the marigolds are both a source of comfort and a source of frustration. She finds solace in their beauty and feels a sense of rebellion when she destroys them.
5. What do the marigolds symbolize in relation to the other characters in the story?
The marigolds also represent different things to the other characters in the story. For Lizabeth’s mother, they represent a reminder of the beauty of life. For Miss Lottie, they are a symbol of the memories of her past.
6. What is the overall message of the story “Marigolds”?
The story “Marigolds” teaches us that even in the face of poverty and despair, there is still beauty and hope to be found. Through the marigolds, we are reminded of the importance of holding onto our childhood innocence and finding joy in the simple things in life.
7. What can we learn from the marigolds in the story “Marigolds”?
We can learn that even the simplest things in life can hold great significance and meaning. The marigolds remind us that beauty and hope can be found in unexpected places.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped you understand the symbolism behind the marigolds in the story “Marigolds.” Remember to always look for the beauty and hope in life, even in the midst of difficulties. Please visit us again for more insights on literature and culture.