Animal (Symbol)
The main circus animal in this novel is an elephant Rosie. She always attracts children and adults during the circus show. Rosie is a very kind and persistent animal. August forces her to work hard and even strikes her, because she does not understand word of command in English. But this innocent animal continues to bear such pain and humiliation. Rosie is a symbol of strength of mind and pertinacity. She is an ideal of vigorous and strong animal. She is a striking example for many people.
Circus (Symbol)
The Benzini Brothers' Circus is a place, which brings gladness and positive impression. But unfortunately people don’t know all truth about this place. The sweat work, small wages, cruel treatment and animal famine take away all satisfaction to work there. People think that it is a real paradise, but artists know that this is a hell, where evil and indifference rule on all occasions. The Circus is a symbol of depression and awful life.
Treatment, esteem (Motif)
This main motif was chosen by the author to show the significance of human features of character. While reading readers can often notice the treatment of people and animals. For example, August, who is an owner of the Circus, always treats animals cruelly. In result, he atones for his deeds. Marlena and Jacob respect each other and animals. Their deeds are trustworthy and all animals feel this kindness. Sara Gruen created this novel to show that all people pay for their sins. But it can be too late to change something, because our destiny cannot give the second chance to redeem our stupid mistakes.
