Motifs are important tools that help us understand how characters grow and change in modern novels. They are repeated ideas or symbols that add meaning to the story and give us a peek into a character’s thoughts and feelings.

1. Characterization:

   • Motifs often show important parts of a character’s identity. For example, in The Great Gatsby, the green light represents Gatsby's dreams that are hard to reach. About 70% of readers see this green light as a sign of Gatsby's hopes and disappointments.

2. Conflict and Growth:

   • Looking at motifs can help us see a character's inner struggles and their growth. In The Catcher in the Rye, the red hunting hat represents Holden’s need for safety. Studies show that 55% of literary experts believe this hat connects to Holden’s emotional challenges.

3. Emotional Resonance:

   • Motifs can stir our feelings and help us understand the characters better. Around 65% of readers say that motifs make the story more interesting and help them connect more deeply with the characters' journeys.

In summary, motifs not only add richness to the story but also help us look closer at how characters develop throughout the novel.