LOTF symbolism review

The plane crash

Represents the sudden intrusion of the adult world's violence into the innocence of childhood. It also sets the stage for isolation and the breakdown of societal norms. So what? It's the catalyst that exposes human nature when removed from civilization.

The platform

This is a triangle and represents the start and end of civilization.

The island

Symbolizes a microcosm of the world, an isolated society where natural instincts and power struggles emerge. It highlights how the environment shapes behavior and morality.

The scar

The mark left by the plane crash symbolizes human impact and destruction. It foreshadows the disruption and violence that will permeate the island.

The reef/ lagoon

Represents safety, tranquility, and the idealistic side of civilization. It contrasts with the danger and chaos of the forest, emphasizing the tension between order and savagery.

Choir robes

Represent conformity, tradition, and power. When the boys wear them as they descend into savagery, the robes also become a mask of fearlessness and intimidation.

The fire

Symbol of hope, rescue, and civilization. Later, it becomes destructive, reflecting the thin line between constructive and destructive human impulses.

The conch

Represents order, law, and democratic power. As it loses influence, it symbolizes the disintegration of social structure.

The spear

Represents aggression, hunting, and the lure of savagery. The boys' growing fascination with it mirrors their moral decline.

The shelters

Represent civilization, cooperation, and protection. Neglecting them reflects the boys' descent into chaos.

The glasses

Symbolize intellect, reason, and the ability to create or destroy (used to start fires). Losing them parallels the decline of rationality.

The beast

Symbol of fear, the unknown, and the darkness within humans. It evolves from a physical fear to an internal psychological force.

The fruit

Represents sustenance and temptation. It parallels the Garden of Eden, with innocence giving way to desire and corruption.

The pigs

Represent both primal instincts and the objectification of power. Hunting pigs mirrors the boys' loss of humanity.

Masks

Symbolize anonymity, savagery, and loss of identity.

Lord of the flies

Represents the manifestation of evil and human corruption. The pig's head becomes a physical symbol of the darkness within.

Castle Rock

Symbol of power, dictatorship, and fear. It is the stronghold of Jack's savagery.

The war

Represents the broader human conflict and the mirror of society's violence. The boys' microcosmic war reflects humanity's destructive tendencies.

circles

Symbolize cycles of behavior, ritual, and entrapment. The boys repeatedly circle in hunting and fear, showing repetition of savagery.

The sea

Represents freedom, the unknown, and both danger and salvation. It separates the boys from civilization yet offers escape.

Silver

Often associated with the glasses, it can symbolize clarity, intellect, and perception. Simon became Christ figure- spiritual contrast. Silver-goodness of the boys. Imagery w silver reduces as book goes on. Silver- betrayal (christ reference).

Motif

(analyze 3 symbol as it progresses and alters throughout the text)

Masks/paint

Initially used for play and camouflage during hunting, but eventually, they symbolize the complete loss of identity and moral restraint, allowing the boys to commit murder.

Ralph

Represents order, democracy, and leadership. His struggle to maintain civilization emphasizes the fragility of social structure.

Piggy

Symbolizes intellect, reason, and scientific thinking. His vulnerability and ultimate death underscore the consequences of ignoring rational thought.

Jack

Embodies savagery, desire for power, and primal instincts. His rise reflects humanity's potential for cruelty when morality is abandoned.

Roger

Symbolizes cruelty and the darker side of human nature. Unlike Jack, Roger enjoys inflicting pain and represents unrestrained evil.

Simon

Represents morality, spirituality, and innate human goodness. His understanding of the beast as a part of human nature highlights the novel's philosophical depth.