In literature owls are often used to present?

In literature, owls are often used to symbolize wisdom, knowledge, and insight due to their association with Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. Their nocturnal nature also lends them an air of mystery and a connection to the unknown. Additionally, owls can represent death or the transition between life and the afterlife, making them complex figures in various narratives. Overall, their multifaceted symbolism enriches the themes and characterizations within literary works.