A type of writing in which the settings, characters, and events stand for other specific people, events, or ideas.

As a literary device, an allegory is a metaphor in which a character, place or event is used to deliver a broader message about real-world issues and occurrences. Allegory (in the sense of the practice and use of allegorical devices and works) has occurred widely throughout history in all forms of art, largely because it can readily illustrate or convey complex ideas and concepts in ways that are comprehensible or striking to its viewers, readers, or listeners.

(Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allegory)

Examples of some allegorical works of literature:

  • Edmund Spenser . The Faerie Queene.
  • William Shakespeare. The Tempest. 
  • John Bunyan. The Pilgrim’s Progress.
  • Fariduddin Attar. The Conference of the Birds