The World Economic Forum
Davos and the World Economic Forum are presented as a symbol of wealth, where making profit seems to be the top priority.
Notre Dame
Greta uses the cathedral of Notre Dame as a symbol of tragedy, which, however, can be rebuilt because of its strong foundation. She contrasts it with modern civilization, which is built on a weak foundation and therefore unable to be rebuilt after the tragedy of climate change.
Greta and Beata
Greta uses herself and her little sister as symbols of the young generation affected by climate change. Thus, the consequences of not acting against climate change become more personal and concrete.
Sweden
Greta often refers to Sweden as a symbol of a wealthy Western country that does not do enough to fight climate change. For example, she mentions that Swedes live their lives as if they had the resources of 4.2 planets.
The burning house (motif)
Many of Greta's speeches share the motif of the burning house, which she uses to emphasize the devastating effects of global warming. Because she claims that the house is on fire, she would expect the leaders, media, and public to expedite the process of saving the environment.
