To be completely frank, I do not fully grasp the idea of what exactly a central or essential metaphor is. Even after some attempts of finding an answer online, the general consensus is that a central metaphor is the most basic form of a metaphor. (for example, "the clouds are white marshmellows").
However, thinking about the discussion in class today, I doubt that the blog post has a deeper meaning than the most basic version of a metaphor. I think that a central metaphor is any metaphor in the play that ties the play together. In other words, I want to write about the metaphors for major themes/ components in the play.
The most fascinating metaphor to me is how life is compared to Pericles's journey. I feel that Shakespeare is probing at the idea of the necessity of self-exploration. Pericles left his kingdom in fear of being killed by assassins from Antioch; thus, he was forced to learn who he really was. Just like in life, Pericles's journey had many bumps in the road, but sometimes these bumps are beneficial in making someone more resilient. Pericles nearly had everything he desired in life, but then a storm wrecks his ship. The sea takes Pericles and spits him upon the shore with absolutely nothing. This instance resembles the common metaphor in the play of rebirth. Pericles was reborn because he is literally starting over from nothing. Pericles proves to be a very humble and persistent individuals as he never belittled those who he met, such as the fishermen, with his nobility status (although Pericles would have a difficult time claiming his identity). As the play unfolds, the new qualities Pericles will discover he has further promotes the central metaphors of life and rebirth. Perhaps Shakespeare urges for people to undertake a personal journey of their own and learn of their true inner-person.
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