Archetypes
The whole novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne has a very symbolic nature. Each of the four characters represents an archetype of a human character trait. Throughout the book the different characters are compared to historical and mythological individuals who shared similar traits. Kenyon, the rational sculptor is the personification of humanism. Hilda, the Puritan, is pure, innocent and unbending in her beliefs. She is likened to the Virgin Mary of Christian believe. Miriam is the mysterious woman with a shrouded past, who does what she needs to do to survive. Finally, Donatello is careless and without conscience. He is the original man and a mythological creature at the same time.
The Marble Faun
The titular statue plays an important role in the book in symbolizing some character traits within Donatello. The protagonists realize that Donatello eerily resembles a statue of a faun by Praxiteles, an ancient sculptor. Through this revelation and through the acts of Donatello, the suggestion is created in the reader's head that Donatello is more than just human. His actions defy normal human decency, as does his emotional reactions. While the book leaves the audience guessing, this symbol is omnipresent within the novel.
Hilda's Doves
Hilda, the innocent Puritan and opposite of Miriam, is pictured in one of the books most striking scenes with doves, which she feeds on top of a tower. The dove, as a symbol of peace and serenity, is a reflection of Hilda's mind. After the climax of the book and the loss of her innocence, the doves do not reappear.
The Mysterious Woman
Miriam, as one of the most interesting characters in the book, is a symbol in herself. She is representative of any woman past and present that has a past that is impacting on her life. She is brilliant artist that is chased, quite literally by her past. While the identity of her pursuer is not revealed, she simply refers to him (or it) as her evil genius. Throughout the book her character and behavior is compared to those that came before. This includes the biblical Eve or even Cleopatra of Ancient Egypt, or a collection of women who went out of their way to defy man's law.
Art as an Imitation of Life
When reading The Marble Faun, one soon realizes that the book was one strong motif that is present throughout the story. Characters, places and actions are often compared or paralleled with famous works of art. The book goes as far in its description of art and the connection to life that it sometimes is used as a travel guide for Rome. The metaphorical meaning of pieces of art or mythology is intelligently included to be an integral part of the unfolding love and crime story.
