In "Allegory of the Cave, by Plato, the author often uses symbols to represent much deeper meanings. Throughout the work, countless metaphors are used to convey the purpose. This figurative language is what makes this piece an allegory. The reader is required to interpret what each symbol means, and furthermore, the allegory as a whole. Although this piece may appear as a simple bedtime caveman story, it has a much deeper meaning and purpose.
Plato's purpse in writing this piece may not be conspicuous to many readers. His real purpose was to reveal how unenlightenment traps a person, and restrain them from living to their full potential. He uses the sun as a metaphor for enlightenment. The prisoners had never seen the sun in their cave. He also represents the hindering affect of unenlightenment through the shackles set upon the cavemen.
I think that the allegory of the cave is still applicable in our lives today, as we are constantly learning new information on a daily basis.
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