The title of the book is metaphorical, using two traditional Christian symbols to illuminate Reid’s belief that the world is divided between serpents and doves—a conviction that shifts as the book progresses. According to traditional Christian iconography, the serpent represents poison, deceit, temptation, and death, all of which stem from the story of Satan, disguised as a snake, encouraging Eve to tempt Adam in the Garden of Eden. As the Archbishop quotes, “And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world” (359). Deeply affected by his strict religious upbringing, Reid initially views witches as “vipers” (36). According to the Archbishop, Lou is a snake tempting Reid.

In contrast, the dove is a Christian symbol for love, freedom, peace, and new beginnings. The dove brings back an olive branch to Noah to allow him to see there is fertile land after the flood. In Mahurin’s novel, the appearance of doves foreshadows Reid’s love for Lou. Reid first sees a dove during his wedding ceremony, though it takes flight as the vows are said. As Reid and Lou grow closer during Lou’s dance in the snow, a “dove coo[s] above [them]” (268), suggesting true love is possible.