Discuss the Symbolic Significance of “Conch Shell” and “Glasses” in Lord of the Flies.

Answer

Discuss the symbolic significance of “conch shell” and “glasses” in Lord of the Flies.

In “Lord of the Flies” (1954), by William Golding (1911 – 1993), the conch shell and Piggy’s glasses hold significant symbolic meaning. These objects represent key elements of the story’s themes and the boys’ descent into chaos. Let’s explore their symbolic roles:

The Conch Shell: Order and Authority: The conch shell symbolizes order, authority, and civilization. When Ralph first blows the conch, it gathers the boys together. It establishes an act of society. The conch gives the right to speak. It maintains order during meetings. The conch signifies the boys’ connection to civilized behaviour as long as it is respected. Golding states,

I’ll give the conch to the next person to speak. He can hold it when he’s speaking. 

The Conch Shell: Decline of Civilization: As the boys’ society declines, so does the conch’s power. The moment when the conch is broken marks the end of any remaining order. This destruction signifies the complete collapse of civilized behaviour and the rise of savagery.

Piggy’s Glasses: Knowledge and Insight: Piggy’s glasses represent knowledge, rationality, and technological advancement. Piggy’s glasses are essential for starting fires. Piggy’s glasses are crucial for survival and rescue. The glasses are a symbol of intellectual work and the power of science.

His specs―use them as burning glasses!

Piggy’s Glasses: Fragility and Openness: The damage to Piggy’s glasses symbolizes civilization’s fragility and intellectualism’s openness. As the glasses break, the boys’ decline into savagery accelerates. When the glasses are stolen, it marks the loss of clear vision and rational thinking. It leads to further chaos and violence.

In “Lord of the Flies,” the conch shell and Piggy’s glasses are powerful symbols. It reflects the boys’ journey from order to disorder. These objects highlight the fragility of civilization.