Bad actions but with good intentions
One of the most common motifs in the play is the idea that sometimes bad actions can be forgiven because they have at its core good intentions. The main characters all perform at some point or another some form of heinous action but because they have good intentions, they are never criticized or ostracized. This point of view is a common idea in the play and as such is a common motif.
Gates as symbol for safety
The main characters reach inevitably some sort of gate and its sight inevitably starts in the mind of the main characters a sense of safety and comfort. Because of this, the gates described and mentioned in the play are used as a symbol for safety and comfort.
The sea
The island on which the actions described in the play takes place is surrounded by a perpetually angry sea that none of the characters can tackle. In moments of great tension, the characters look out towards the sea and search for guidance. Thus, because of this, the sea is used here as a symbol of inner turmoil and tension.
Stories as a symbol for deception
Various stories are told throughout the play and they are often used when one character wants to distract another character's attention. These stories are almost never true and because of this and because of the way in which they are used are employed in the play as a symbol for deception.
Bows, swords and armors
The male characters in the play all try to hold on and to protect some kind of relic which was passed down to them from their parents or ancestors. When these elements are stolen or lost, the characters inevitably fall into fits of fury, anger, and violence and becoming willing to do everything they can to get those things back. The elements mentioned above are also used as a symbol, representing a person's legacy and influence.
