Lord of the Flies: Symbolism

The depiction of symbolism in William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies establishes the

theme of the novel. As a result, the theme of discovering one’s true self is displayed through

object symbolism, symbols of the savage tribe and beast and analysis of key character

symbols. Not only does symbolism develop the structure and meaning of the novel but also

is a very important object of the book.


Firstly, object symbolism is noted in the large conch shell. The shell symbolizes order

and civilization due to its power to create order through organizing meetings. Therefore, the

conch symbolizes the destruction of order once Roger crushes it beneath a boulder. “See?

See? That’s what you’ll get! I meant that! There isn’t a tribe any more! The conch is gone-”

on page 181, said by Jack, illustrates that by destroying the shell, they have become

immensely uncivilized. Another example of object symbolism is depicted in the signal fires
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