What does The Forest represent?

The symbolism of the forest works on several levels. It is mysterious and full of the unknown, and it is this very thing that make it a symbol for the place where young people must go to grow up. There, they are tested as Serafina is when she goes into the forest.

It is also a place where life flourishes which lends it to symbolize a mother. This symbolism is in contrast to the comforts of home, which is more connected to reason and intellect. Serafina finds herself torn between the two, which is consistent with her nature. She was born in the forest and this is where her mother lives. Yet, Serafina fits in with the comforts of home at the estate. There she can have warm milk and eat catfish. Her father is also very logical.

However in Biltmore Estate she is a human. It is only in the forest, which also symbolizes things that are outside reason and intellect, that she can reveal her true nature.