افسانہ اور علامتیت: "بجوکا" کے علامتی ڈھانچے کا تنقیدی جائزہ

Abstract

Symbolism is a potent literary technique used by writers to convey profound themes, feelings, and social critique in their stories. The scarecrow (بجوکا), an apparently ordinary character, has captivated the minds of short-story writers for years. The scarecrow serves as a multifaceted emblem, representing concepts such as seclusion, safeguarding, individuality, and the contrast between the organic and the man-made. This research seeks to clarify the scarecrow's ability to deeply resonate with readers by closely analyzing certain texts and examining critical perspectives. Moreover, this study explores the socio-cultural circumstances that have impacted the representation of the scarecrow in literature, elucidating its evolution from a practical farming implement to a meaningful metaphorical instrument. Through an analysis of the development of scarecrows, we can have a deeper understanding of how short stories mirror and react to shifting perspectives on rural life, agriculture, and the human experience. Therefore, the complex web of symbolism woven by the scarecrow in fiction is revealed. This research enhances the overall comprehension of symbolism in literature by analyzing its literary depictions and examining its socio-cultural importance. Additionally, it acknowledges and appreciates the ongoing fascination with an apparently ordinary character in the realm of fiction.