Symbolism through Animals - English 12



PROCESS (ONGOING)

MA1: Understand the intersection between words and images and meaning making

Name: ____________________________

Symbolism through Animals

In Maus, the characters are represented by different animals depending on their race, religion, or nationality. Spiegelman’s use of different characters is highly symbolic; each animal is chosen for a particular reason, which is related to the specific characteristics often associated with each character.

As you read, you will encounter these symbolic character choices; you will need to explore the nationality connected to each animal, the traits (good and/or bad) of these animals, why Spiegelman chose to connect the animals to their nationality, and whether you agree or disagree with his choices.

This may require identifying the stereotypes that were associated with that nationality at the time.

I have listed a few of the main animals used. Please fill-in the others as they are introduced.

|Animal |Nationality |Traits |Why Spiegelman chose |Agree/Disagree and Why |

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|Mouse | | | | |

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|Cat | | | | |

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|Dog | | | | |

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|Pig | | | | |

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* This assignment is due at the end of the unit. It is an ongoing assignment attached to the characters throughout both books. *

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