Final answer:
In the play 'Trifles' by Susan Glaspell, several symbols are used to convey broader themes, such as the canary cage symbolizing Minnie Wright's confinement and the broken preserves jars signifying her shattered marriage. The sheriff's hat represents authority, and the rocking chair serves as a symbol of comfort amidst turmoil.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the symbolism present in the play Trifles by Susan Glaspell. Symbols in literature are physical objects or occurrences that represent broader concepts or themes.
The canary cage in Trifles symbolizes confinement and isolation, particularly of Minnie Wright, the main character. Minnie was once a singer, known as Minnie Foster, and the bird’s singing represents the freedom and identity she lost after marriage. The cage reflects both the physical and emotional constraints she experiences in her oppressive marriage.
The broken preserved jars symbolize a shattered marriage. The preserves, ruined by the cold, represent Minnie's efforts to maintain a happy household, which ultimately fail due to her unhappy marriage. This mirrors the disintegrating relationship between Minnie and her husband.
The sheriff's hat stands for authority and control. It underscores the power dynamics between the male characters, who are defined by their official roles, and the female characters, who are identified by their marital status. This disparity in identity and recognition emphasizes the gender-based power imbalances present in the play.
The rocking chair signifies comfort and peace, perhaps a respite from Minnie’s troubled life. However, its comforting presence contrasts with the tension and distress that permeate the Wright household.