Which of the following best describes an allegory?

An allegory is a narrative that conveys a deeper moral, political, or spiritual meaning through symbolic figures, actions, or events. In this context, a story representing virtues and vices symbolically captures the essence of allegory, as it uses characters and events to illustrate complex ideas about morality and human behavior. Classic examples of allegories include George Orwell's "Animal Farm," where the farm animals symbolize various social classes and political ideologies, or John Bunyan's "The Pilgrim's Progress," which personifies abstract concepts like faith and hope through its characters and their journeys. This symbolic representation allows readers to engage with the narrative on multiple levels, making allegories a powerful tool for imparting lessons and encouraging reflection on real-world issues.