Chess

For Ivan's character, chess is symbolic of order and control. The game has strict rules and strategies. Ivan has studied the game for years and therefore feels a sense of balance and stability whenever he is playing.

Ivan's Suit

To Peter, Ivan's funeral suit is symbolic of weakness. Peter feels disgusted by his brother's ensemble, and uses the secondhand clothes as another reason to condescend to Ivan. Peter frequently thinks about, alludes to, or talks about the suit throughout the novel, which captures his desire to overpower Ivan.

Dog

Ivan's dog is symbolic of purity. When Ivan is with Alexei he feels happy and calm. The dog shows him love in an unbridled and uninhibited way which alleviates Ivan's restlessness and helps him understand the beauty of connection and companionship.

Dishwasher

The dishwasher that Margaret plans to buy for her mother is symbolic of responsibility. Margaret...