Explain the literary device of an allegory.

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An allegory is best understood as a narrative in which characters, events, and details serve as symbols representing deeper meanings and abstract ideas. This literary device is often designed to convey moral, ethical, or political messages through the narrative. Through allegorical storytelling, authors can explore complex themes and engage readers in a way that encourages them to look beyond the surface of the tale.

For instance, works like George Orwell's "Animal Farm" exhibit allegorical elements, where farm animals represent figures from the Russian Revolution, providing commentary on power dynamics and corruption. The strength of allegory lies in its ability to convey profound truths and provoke thought while remaining accessible through the guise of a simple story.

The other choices refer to different literary concepts. Exaggerated comparisons align with hyperbole, a figure of speech used to create emphasis, while a specific rhyme scheme pertains to poetry, focusing on the sound and flow of words rather than symbolism. A character's internal struggle deals with introspective conflict, which may arise in various forms of literature but does not encapsulate the broader symbolic nature that defines allegory.

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