Which literary term describes a form of extended metaphor where elements in a narrative are equated with external meanings?

The correct answer is the term "allegory." An allegory is a narrative technique in which characters, events, and details within a story are representative of broader concepts or moral lessons. In allegories, the elements of the narrative serve dual purposes: they entertain the reader while also conveying deeper meanings about human experience, politics, morality, or social issues. This layered approach allows readers to interpret the story on multiple levels, often revealing insights into the human condition or critical commentary on societal norms.

For instance, classic examples of allegories include George Orwell's "Animal Farm," where the farm and its inhabitants symbolize the rise of communism, and Plato's "Allegory of the Cave," which explores the nature of reality and enlightenment. By using allegory, authors can engage readers in a more profound exploration of themes and ideas through the lens of storytelling.

The other options do not embody this quality. Similes make direct comparisons between two unlike things using "like" or "as" and do not present extended metaphoric meanings. Imagery involves descriptive language used to create mental pictures and sensory experiences, while metonymy refers to a figure of speech where one thing is represented by another that is closely associated with it, but neither has the