English Classic Literature Questions Long
In William Golding's 'Lord of the Flies', the conch shell serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing order, civilization, and democracy.
Initially, the conch shell is discovered by Ralph and Piggy on the beach, and it quickly becomes a tool for establishing order and communication among the boys. When Ralph blows into the shell, it emits a loud sound that gathers the attention of the scattered boys, bringing them together. This demonstrates the conch's ability to unify the group and establish a sense of authority and structure.
As the story progresses, the conch shell becomes a symbol of democracy and the boys' commitment to maintaining a civilized society. During their meetings, the conch shell is used as a symbol of power, as only the person holding it has the right to speak. This system ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to express their opinions and ideas, promoting a fair and democratic environment.
However, as the boys descend into savagery and chaos, the significance of the conch shell diminishes. It becomes a mere object, disregarded and eventually destroyed. This destruction symbolizes the complete breakdown of civilization and the loss of order among the boys. With the conch shell shattered, the boys lose their last connection to the civilized world and descend into anarchy.
Furthermore, the conch shell also represents the fragility of civilization and the vulnerability of human nature. Just like the conch, which is delicate and easily broken, the boys' attempts to maintain order and civilization prove to be fragile and susceptible to destruction. The conch shell's gradual deterioration parallels the boys' descent into savagery and their loss of moral values.
In conclusion, the conch shell in 'Lord of the Flies' symbolizes order, civilization, democracy, and the fragility of human society. Its significance evolves throughout the novel, reflecting the boys' journey from a civilized society to a state of chaos and anarchy.