• One of the major symbols used throughout the novel, used to enhance the plot is gold. In the beginning of the novel Milkman views gold as a symbol of wealth and power. After Milkman leaves Hagar, he realizes that he is bored with his life and wants to escape his home, his town and his life altogether; however, the one item Milkman does not possess is gold. In the beginning of the novel gold is used to symbol Milkman’s stasis in his life, for he cannot escape his father if he has no money, thus gold is used to highlight the growing discourse amongst Milkman as he grows greedy, wanted Pilate’s gold in order to escape his dull life and his father. However, as Milkman continues his quest for gold, and wealth he soon begins to realize the
