Introduction

Symbolist literature is a significant area in the history of world literature, emerging in France in the late nineteenth century. This literary movement emerged as a reaction against realism and naturalism, seeking to delve into the depths of the human psyche, exploring the world of dreams, death, love, and all the intangible and subjective aspects of human existence.

Symbolism was a literary trend that rejected the exact and direct representation of reality, instead preferring to use symbols and metaphors to suggest emotions, ideas, and feelings. The Symbolists aimed to express something beyond the concrete and technical reality, valuing individuality, subjectivity, and spirituality.

Contextualization

In addition to being a literary movement, Symbolism is also present in other art forms, such as painting and music. This broad influence and application make Symbolism a fascinating and relevant topic for understanding human culture and society. In Brazil, Symbolist literature was initiated by Cruz e Sousa and Alphonsus de Guimaraens around 1893.

Appreciating and studying Symbolist literature requires an in-depth understanding of the historical, social, and cultural contexts of the late nineteenth century. Learning about this literary movement also involves analyzing how writers incorporated metaphors, symbols, and imagery to express their thoughts and emotions.

Practical Activity: "Symbolism in the Spotlight"

Project Objective

The "Symbolism in the Spotlight" project aims to engage students in creating a theatrical play that exemplifies the concepts and characteristics of Symbolist literature. Additionally, students are expected to conduct a literary analysis of a Symbolist work, connecting it to the historical, social, and cultural contexts of the late nineteenth century.

Detailed Project Description

Divided into groups of 3 to 5 participants, students will be tasked with selecting a work of Symbolist literature, conducting a critical analysis, adapting this work into a theatrical play format, and finally presenting this play to the class. While one part of the project involves the elaboration and execution of the play (scenery, costumes, dialogues, etc.), the other part requires in-depth research and analysis of the chosen work, its author, and the context in which it was written.

Required Materials

• Books and online materials for research (As indicated in the Resources section of the Introduction)
• Materials for scenery and costumes of the play
• Camera or smartphone for recording the play (Optional)

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for the Activity

1. Selection of the work and group formation: Students should form groups of 3 to 5 members and collectively select a Symbolist work to be the theme of the play.

2. Research and analysis of the work: Each group should conduct thorough research on the chosen work, its author, and the historical, social, and cultural context in which it was written. The group should prepare an oral presentation of this research for the class before presenting the play.

3. Scriptwriting: Students should adapt the chosen work into a play, highlighting the Symbolist elements in the plot and dialogues.

4. Play preparation: The group should prepare scenery, costumes, and rehearse the play. The plays should be recorded (optional) or presented live to the class.

5. Presentation of the play and research: Each group will give an oral presentation of their research on the chosen work to the class, followed by the presentation of the play.

6. Final report: Each group should prepare a detailed written report on the entire project process, from the choice of the work to the presentation of the play. The report should include reflections on the importance of Symbolism in literature and an analysis of the chosen work.

Project Deliverables

Students should submit a detailed written report of the project, containing:

1. Introduction: Description of the chosen work, historical, cultural, and social contextualization of the work and its author, and the relevance of Symbolism in literature and society.

2. Development: Details of the critical analysis of the work, scriptwriting of the play, preparation and rehearsal of the play, problems encountered and how they were solved, emphasizing the group's cooperation.

3. Conclusions: Critical reflection on the team's learning throughout the project. This should include the students' understanding of Symbolism, the group work processes, the challenges faced and how they were overcome, and their final considerations on the project experience as a whole.

4. Bibliography: List all research sources used for the project.

This project will develop not only technical skills related to the study of literature but also socio-emotional skills such as teamwork, time management, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.