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allegory vs. parable

[al-uh-gawr-ee, -gohr-ee] / ˈæl əˌgɔr i, -ˌgoʊr i /

noun

plural

allegories
  1. a representation of an abstract or spiritual meaning through concrete or material forms; figurative treatment of one subject under the guise of another.

  2. a symbolical narrative.

    the allegory of Piers Plowman.

    Synonyms:
    parable, fable
  3. emblem.

[par-uh-buhl] / ˈpær ə bəl /

noun

  1. a short allegorical story designed to illustrate or teach some truth, religious principle, or moral lesson.

    Synonyms:
    apologue, homily, allegory
  2. a statement or comment that conveys a meaning indirectly by the use of comparison, analogy, or the like.