Lord of the Flies Symbol Notes

The Island Originally a paradise – Lush gardens, untouched by human hands After the crash, it is a symbol of hell – “scarred” by the crash – Populated by “red and yellow bird” (like fire) with “witch like cries” Ralph’s belt has a “snakelike” clasp  Satan in the Garden of Eden

The Conch Leadership – Brings a sense of order to the boys chaos Sounding of the conch is a primitive act – Reenacting movement from savagery to order/civilization Divinity and purity – white conch with the pearl-like inside – Colors suggest/connect that order is something pure/divine

The Glasses Last connection to civilization  they are “man-made” Provides sight, literally and figuratively – Piggy’s ability to see – Piggy is the only character with a sense of foresight – Broken glasses=broken vision

The Fire Humanity’s hope – Keeping the fire burning is a chance for the boys to be rescued Man’s control over nature – The boys can control a natural element, and allow that natural element to destroy their environment Man’s connection to the gods – Fire came from the gods  connection to a higher power for guidance, direction, hope

The Parachutist The boys are looking for a “sign from the grownups” Dead parachutist lands the same night  he is the sign – Reminder that world of grownups is one of death and destruction – Boys are looking to the wrong place for answers and hope

Identity Two groups  ”littluns” and “biguns” – Individuality does not matter – Samneric reminder that even as indivduals, GROUP is what matters Chance to create a new identity – Jack’s mask allows him to be someone new – Must question whether or not that savage was always there