The imagery of water
Water is a constant motif, often appearing in important places in the plot. Mélisande is depicted with a stream where she lost her crown, and she finds a lover. Later, when she betrays her new husband, she is depicted by a fountain where she loses her wedding ring. This depiction of water makes water into a symbol for freedom of choice, and the chaos of potential outcomes.
Imagery of power and wealth
The characters in this novel have royal jewelry that matters deeply. When Mélisande loses her crown in the stream, that's a way of saying that she has disregarded her rule-oriented, aristocratic upbringing for a passionate, reckless life.
Erotic imagery
The forbidden couple is depicted as caressing in private, seen by a spy who gets away without being caught. This depiction is tantric, because it's dark and sexual. It's a depiction of the force of Eros.
Imagery of violence and blood
When Mélisande isn't depicted in water or by water, she is usually covered in blood. This is an interesting depiction of justice, of innocence and experience, and of course the violence of her childbirth and death are also important images of this type.
