Symbolism in Bernard Malamuds The Natural Essay - 2422 Words

Symbolism in Bernard Malamuds The Natural The role of symbolism in Bernard Malamuds The Natural is important in helping the reader understand the theme and meaning of the novel as well as the time period in which it took place. Malamud ¡Ã‚ ¦s use of symbolism defines the character of Roy Hobbs and shows how the events occurring around him affected his decisions and, eventually, his career. Symbolism in The Natural takes the form of characters, such as women who strongly influenced Roy; historical events, such as the infamous 1919 World Series scandal; and even Greek and Roman mythology. All forms of symbolism used by Malamud are woven into the life and career of Roy Hobbs. As a first example, women have a tremendous†¦show more content†¦His desperate attitude leads him to be seduced by her, ending his bid to make the Chicago Cubs. The character of Harriet Bird serves as an ancestor-figure to Iris Lemon and Memo Paris (Helterman 25). In a way, Iris and Memo are symbolic descendants of Harriet because they, too, have so much influence on Roy. Memo, however, closely resembles Harriet in personality. Both of the women are very attracted to two separate major league ball players, Memo having a relationship with Roy ¡Ã‚ ¦s teammmate Bump Bailey, and Harriet being attracted to Whammer Wabold on the train. Both also seem to want to cause Roy harm, doing what they can to stand in the way of his eventual stardom. The two truly opposite personalities created by Malamud are Memo and Iris (27). Physically, Memo is first shown wearing a black dress and has red hair; Iris is shown wearing a red dress with a white rose attached and has black hair. Mentally, Memo tends to use her memory to live in the past, relating everything to her deceased lover, Bump. On the other hand, Iris uses substance to live, describing her life with actions and words rather than by memories. Malamud creates these two characters to force Roy to choose his fate. For his own benefit and well being, Roy should choose Iris and stay away from Memo. Memo ¡Ã‚ ¦s attractiveness and seductiveness, however, keeps Roy from making the right decision. Another form of symbolism that influences Roy ¡Ã‚ ¦s