Significance of The Conch in Lord of The Flies

William Golding's novel, Lord of the Flies, explores the inherent evil that resides within human nature through the story of a group of British boys stranded on a deserted island. Throughout the novel, the conch shell emerges as a powerful symbol, representing order, democracy, and civilization. It serves as a tool for communication and a symbol of authority, providing the boys with a sense of unity and structure. However, as the story progresses, the conch's significance diminishes, paralleling the boys' descent into savagery and chaos. This essay will explore the symbolism of the conch in Lord of the Flies and analyze its evolving meaning throughout the narrative.

The Conch as a Symbol of Order and Democracy

From the moment it is discovered by Ralph and Piggy, the conch becomes a symbol of order and democracy on the island. Piggy suggests using it as a trumpet to gather the other boys, emphasizing its potential to bring them together. Golding writes, "He blew a series of short blasts... The conch exploded into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist" (Golding 16). The conch's ability to unite the boys demonstrates its symbolic power.

The conch also represents democracy, as it grants each holder the right to speak and be heard. This is evident when Ralph declares, "I'll give the conch to the next person to speak. He won't be interrupted" (Golding 33). The conch serves as a symbol of equality, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected. In this way, it upholds the principles of a democratic society.

Furthermore, the conch acts as a source of authority and legitimacy. When the boys question Ralph's leadership, he reminds them, "I've got the conch. That means I can speak" (Golding 42). The conch symbolizes Ralph's right to rule and his ability to maintain order. It provides a sense of structure and control, preventing the boys from descending into chaos.

The Conch's Diminishing Significance

As the boys on the island gradually succumb to their primal instincts, the conch's significance diminishes. This is exemplified by the scene in which Jack and his hunters brutally kill a mother pig. After the hunt, Jack boasts, "See? See? That's what you'll get! I meant that! There isn't a tribe for you anymore! The conch is gone" (Golding 181). The destruction of the conch symbolizes the loss of order, democracy, and civilization among the boys.

Additionally, the conch loses its power when the boys no longer respect its authority. During one of their assemblies, Roger interrupts Jack by speaking out of turn. Golding writes, "Roger edged past the chief, only just avoiding pushing him with his shoulder. The yelling ceased, and Samneric lay looking up in quiet terror. Roger advanced upon them as one wielding a nameless authority" (Golding 180). This scene reveals that the conch no longer holds the same influence over the boys. Their descent into savagery has eroded the conch's power and significance.

Furthermore, the conch's demise parallels the boys' transformation into savage creatures. As the conch shatters, it is described as "a white shape, a figure of a small boy, advancing on them through the air and crying out in a shrill voice" (Golding 181). This imagery suggests that the destruction of the conch represents the loss of their civilized selves, as they fully embrace their savage instincts.

Implications and Further Exploration

The symbolism of the conch in Lord of the Flies highlights the delicate balance between civilization and savagery. As the conch's significance diminishes, the boys' descent into chaos becomes more pronounced. The conch's destruction represents the collapse of order and democracy, emphasizing the inherent darkness within human nature.

Further exploration of the conch's symbolism could examine its connection to power and authority. In the novel, the conch grants the holder the ability to speak and maintain order. However, as the boys devolve into savagery, they reject the conch's authority and establish their own power structures. This raises questions about the nature of power and its relationship to civilization.

In conclusion, the conch in Lord of the Flies symbolizes order, democracy, and civilization. Its diminishing significance throughout the novel mirrors the boys' descent into chaos and savagery. The conch's destruction represents the collapse of their civilized selves. This exploration of the conch's symbolism highlights the delicate balance between civilization and the inherent evil that resides within human nature.

Bibliography

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Faber and Faber, 1954.