Lord of The Flies: Symbolism Analysis

The story follows a group of young boys who are stranded on an uninhabited island and must fend for themselves as they struggle to maintain order and civilization. Throughout the novel, Golding uses various symbols to represent deeper themes and ideas. In this essay, we will analyze the symbolism in Lord of the Flies and how it contributes to the overall meaning of the novel.

Symbolism in Lord of the Flies

One of the most prominent symbols in Lord of the Flies is the conch shell. The conch represents order and civilization, as it is used to call the boys together and establish rules and guidelines for their society. However, as the boys descend into savagery, the conch loses its power and influence, symbolizing the breakdown of order and the loss of civilization.

Another important symbol in the novel is the beast. The beast represents the primal instincts and fears that exist within each of the boys. As the story progresses, the beast becomes a source of terror and paranoia for the boys, ultimately leading to their descent into violence and chaos.

The character of Piggy also serves as a symbol in the novel. Piggy represents intellect and reason, as he is often the voice of logic and rationality among the boys. However, his glasses, which are used to start fires, also symbolize the power of knowledge and technology, which can be used for both good and evil.

Analysis of Symbolism

These symbols in Lord of the Flies serve to deepen the themes and ideas presented in the novel. The conch shell, for example, represents the fragility of civilization and the ease with which it can be shattered. As the conch loses its power, the boys become increasingly savage and violent, demonstrating the destructive nature of human behavior without the constraints of society.

Similarly, the beast symbolizes the darkness that lies within each individual, and the ways in which fear can be manipulated and used to control others. The boys' fear of the beast drives them to commit unspeakable acts, highlighting the destructive power of irrationality and paranoia.

Piggy's character and his glasses symbolize the potential for both progress and destruction. While Piggy represents the voice of reason and intellect, his glasses also serve as a reminder of the dangers of knowledge and technology in the wrong hands. The boys' use of the glasses to start fires reflects the destructive potential of human innovation, and the ways in which it can be used to inflict harm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lord of the Flies is a powerful exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, and the symbols used throughout the novel serve to deepen and enhance its themes and ideas. The conch shell, the beast, and Piggy's glasses all represent different aspects of human behavior and the fragility of civilization. By analyzing these symbols, we gain a deeper understanding of the novel and the ways in which it comments on the nature of society and the human condition.