Lord of The Flies: an Analysis of The Symbolism of The Sow

Throughout the novel Lord of the Flies, William Golding utilizes various symbols to convey deeper meanings and explore the dark aspects of human nature. One recurring symbol in the text is the sow, representing the descent into savagery and the loss of civilization. This essay will analyze the significance of the sow in the novel, examining its role in the boys' transformation from civilized individuals to bloodthirsty hunters. Through an exploration of the sow's presence and the reactions it elicits, it becomes evident that the sow symbolizes the corrupting influence of power, the loss of innocence, and the inherent evil within humanity.

Power and Corruption

The sow's presence on the island serves as a catalyst for the boys' descent into savagery and the corruption of power. Initially, the boys are repulsed by the sight of the dead sow, with Ralph describing it as "a gift" from the island, indicating their reluctance to engage in violence (Golding 135). However, as the novel progresses, the boys become increasingly desensitized to the sow's violent death, using its head as a sacrifice to the "beast" they fear. This transformation highlights how power can corrupt even the most innocent individuals, as the boys' initial reluctance to harm the sow is replaced by a lust for power and control.

Moreover, the sow also represents the corrupting influence of power when it is associated with the character of Jack. Jack, who initially hesitates to kill the sow, eventually becomes obsessed with hunting and killing, using the sow's head as a symbol of his authority and dominance over the other boys. This transformation demonstrates how power can corrupt individuals and lead them to commit heinous acts. As the boys become more entangled in their savage instincts, the sow's symbolism becomes increasingly potent, reflecting the destructive nature of power.

Loss of Innocence

Another key aspect of the sow's symbolism is its representation of the loss of innocence. The boys' initial reaction to the sow's death reveals their inherent innocence and discomfort with violence. However, as they become more immersed in their savage existence, their innocence gradually diminishes. This loss of innocence is particularly evident when the boys chant, "Kill the beast! Cut her throat! Spill her blood!" (Golding 152). The use of the pronoun "her" emphasizes the boys' dehumanization of the sow, as they no longer see it as a living creature deserving of respect and compassion.

Furthermore, the sow's role in the boys' transformation is paralleled by the deterioration of their moral values. Initially, the boys establish rules and a system of democracy, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining a civilized society. However, as their obsession with hunting and violence grows, these rules are abandoned, and they succumb to their primal instincts. The sow's presence and subsequent transformation into a sacrifice symbolize the loss of the boys' moral compass and their descent into savagery.

The Inherent Evil Within Humanity

The sow's symbolism also extends to the inherent evil within humanity. As the boys' behavior becomes increasingly brutal, the sow's presence acts as a reminder of the darkness within each individual. The sow's head, mounted on a stick, becomes the "Lord of the Flies," representing the evil that resides within the boys themselves. This evil is further emphasized by the sow's decaying and decomposing body, symbolizing the decay of civilization and the triumph of savagery.

In addition, the sow's presence serves as a reflection of the boys' own inner demons. Their fear of the "beast" that resides within them is projected onto the sow, allowing them to externalize their own capacity for violence and cruelty. The boys' inability to confront and overcome this darkness ultimately leads to their destruction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sow in Lord of the Flies serves as a powerful symbol that represents the corrupting influence of power, the loss of innocence, and the inherent evil within humanity. Through its various manifestations and the reactions it elicits, the sow symbolizes the boys' descent into savagery and the destruction of civilization. By examining the significance of the sow in the novel, it becomes evident that Golding uses this symbol to explore the darker aspects of human nature, highlighting the potential for evil that lies within each individual.

As readers delve into the depths of Lord of the Flies, the sow's symbolic presence acts as a chilling reminder of the fragility of civilization and the capacity for darkness within humanity. Golding's masterful use of the sow as a symbol enhances the novel's thematic depth and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the loss of innocence. Therefore, it is crucial for readers to recognize the deeper implications of the sow's symbolism in order to fully appreciate the profound insights offered by Lord of the Flies.

Bibliography

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Penguin Books, 1954.