Symbols are persons, places, or things in a narrative that have significance beyond a literal understanding. The craft of storytelling depends on symbols to present ideas and point toward new meanings. Most frequently, a specific object will be used to refer to (or symbolize) a more abstract concept. The repeated appearance of an object suggests a non-literal, or figurative, meaning attached to the object. Symbols are often found in the book’s title, at the beginning and end of the story, within a profound action, or in the name or personality of a character. The life of a novel is perpetuated by generations of readers interpreting and reinterpreting the main symbols. By identifying and understanding symbols, readers can reveal new interpretations of the novel. The most important symbol in The Maltese Falcon is the falcon itself, a statuette once given by the Knights of Rhodes to King Charles V of Spain. Gutman, Cairo, and Brigid O’Shaughnessy selfishly pursue their own interests as they try to obtain the bird. Driven by greed, they become mired in the quest for fortune without considering the cost. Spade becomes embroiled in the pursuit after his partner, Miles Archer, is murdered

Today we will consider the falcon as a symbol.

First, read this document.

Then, discuss with your group the idea of this novel as an allegory. How do the novel’s characters, objects, and events symbolize concepts of moral or social significance? Do their names provide any clues? Think about a character: Sam Spade, Casper Gutman, Joel Cairo, or Brigid O’Shaughnessy. If The Maltese Falcon is read as an allegory, what abstract ideas might each of these characters personify?

Then, access this form.

Think about the qualities of a real falcon. Does a character you discussed today share any of these characteristics? If so, what are they? Does the falcon represent different things to different characters? Support your answers with passages from the text.