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Battle Royale Symbolism

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Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. The use of symbolism gives readers the ability to find deeper meanings that are beyond whats actually described on paper. In Ralph Ellison’s short story, “Battle Royale”, he uses blindfolds, the speaking event, and the battle royal to symbolize exactly what African Americans went through for equality.
The fight between the boys symbolizes the way African Americans have been treated in today's society. The grandfather even compares white people to a lions mouth because in order for African Americans to stay alive, they would listen and follow every command the white man would say. African Americans were judged by the color of their skin instead of character of their hearts. This

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