The conch shell

Definition

The conch shell serves as a powerful symbol in William Golding's 'Lord of the Flies', representing civilization, authority, and order among the boys stranded on the island. Its initial use as a tool for calling meetings and establishing rules reflects the boys' attempts to create a structured society, showcasing the tension between civilization and savagery that is central to the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The conch shell is first discovered by Ralph and Piggy, symbolizing hope for order and governance among the boys.
2. Initially, the conch is respected by all and is used to establish rules for speaking during meetings, which emphasizes its role in promoting democracy.
3. As chaos ensues and power struggles arise, the authority of the conch diminishes, paralleling the boys' descent into savagery.
4. The breaking of the conch shell signifies the complete breakdown of civilization on the island, marking a pivotal moment in the story.
5. The conch's ultimate destruction reflects Golding's commentary on human nature and the fragility of societal structures when faced with primal instincts.

Review Questions

• How does the conch shell symbolize authority and order within the group of boys?
  • The conch shell symbolizes authority and order by being used as a tool for calling meetings and granting the right to speak. Initially, it helps establish a democratic process where every boy has a voice, promoting cooperation and organization. As long as the conch is respected, it represents their commitment to civilization and structured society.
• Analyze the shift in perception of the conch shell as the story progresses and its implications for the group’s societal structure.
  • As the boys descend into chaos, their respect for the conch shell wanes significantly. Once seen as a powerful symbol of authority, it gradually loses its influence as savagery takes over. This shift highlights how easily societal structures can break down when primal instincts emerge, revealing deep truths about human nature and our need for order.
• Evaluate how Golding uses the conch shell to comment on human nature and society's fragility.
  • Golding uses the conch shell to illustrate how fragile societal constructs are when faced with inherent human savagery. The gradual erosion of respect for the conch signifies not only the breakdown of civilized behavior but also exposes the darker aspects of human nature that can override reason and community. Through this symbolism, Golding argues that while civilization is built on shared values, it can swiftly collapse under pressure from our baser instincts.

Related terms

Civilization: A complex society characterized by urban development, social stratification, and a shared set of cultural norms and values.

Savage: A term used to describe behavior that is brutal, uncivilized, or lacking in cultural sophistication, often juxtaposed against civilized norms.

Democracy:

A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.