Symbolism Analysis in Lord of the Flies
The novel's rich symbolic landscape begins with the island itself, which serves as a pristine paradise reminiscent of the Garden of Eden, untouched by human corruption. The forest scar created by the crashed plane symbolically marks humanity's first intrusion into this natural sanctuary.
Definition: Symbolism is the artistic practice of using objects, characters, events, or titles to represent deeper meanings or significance beyond their literal interpretation.
Example: The island's transformation from paradise to chaos mirrors humanity's fall from grace in biblical narrative.
Highlight: Piggy's glasses significance in Lord of the Flies extends beyond their practical use, representing both technological advancement and rational thinking in civilization.
Quote: "As a political allegory, Ralph (and conch) represents democracy while Jack is totalitarianism."
The signal fire serves dual symbolic purposes, representing both hope for rescue and the destructive potential of unchecked power. The beast evolves from a simple "snake thing" to a dead parachutist, symbolizing how fear transforms from primitive superstition to real-world threats.
Vocabulary: Political allegory - a narrative in which characters and events represent political ideas or historical figures.
The character symbolism reinforces the novel's themes: Piggy embodies logic and rationality, Ralph represents civilized order, and Jack symbolizes savage instincts. Through a Freudian lens, these characters represent different aspects of human psychology: id (Jack), ego (Ralph), and superego (Piggy).
