The conch shell

Definition

The conch shell in 'Lord of the Flies' serves as a powerful symbol of civilization and order among the boys stranded on the island. Initially, it represents democratic power, authority, and the structured communication necessary for society to function. As the story progresses, the conch's influence diminishes, mirroring the boys' descent into chaos and savagery.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The conch shell is discovered by Ralph and Piggy at the beginning of the story, and it is used to call meetings and establish order among the boys.
2. As long as someone holds the conch during meetings, they are granted the right to speak, symbolizing a commitment to civilized discourse.
3. The conch's power begins to wane as Jack and his followers embrace savagery, leading to its eventual destruction.
4. When the conch is shattered, it symbolizes the complete breakdown of order and the triumph of chaos on the island.
5. The contrast between the conch and other symbols, like Piggy's glasses, highlights themes of power, control, and societal collapse.

Review Questions

• How does the conch shell symbolize civilization in 'Lord of the Flies', and what does its decline represent?
  • The conch shell symbolizes civilization through its role in establishing rules and order among the boys. It allows them to communicate democratically, granting speaking rights to those who hold it. As the story unfolds and the boys descend into savagery, the conch's decline represents the collapse of their civilized behavior and societal structure, illustrating how quickly humanity can revert to chaos when order is not upheld.
• Discuss the significance of the moment when the conch is destroyed. What does this event reveal about the characters and their societal transformation?
  • The destruction of the conch is a pivotal moment that signifies the complete breakdown of order among the boys. It reveals how far they have strayed from their initial commitment to civilization and rationality. Characters like Ralph and Piggy represent remnants of order that are ultimately overwhelmed by Jack's savage instincts. This event highlights not just a shift in power dynamics but also underscores themes of morality, governance, and human nature.
• Evaluate how Golding uses the conch shell to comment on human nature and societal structures throughout 'Lord of the Flies'.
  • Golding uses the conch shell as a powerful commentary on human nature and societal structures by illustrating how fragile these constructs can be. The initial reverence for the conch reflects an innate desire for order and community; however, as fear and primal instincts take over, its eventual destruction suggests that civilization is a thin veneer over humanity’s darker impulses. Golding posits that without strong moral foundations and adherence to social contracts, chaos can easily ensue, revealing unsettling truths about human nature.

Related terms

Symbolism: The use of symbols to signify ideas and qualities, giving deeper meaning beyond the literal sense.

Civilization: A complex human society characterized by the presence of cities, social classes, and a system of governance.

Savage instincts: The inherent primal behaviors that emerge in individuals when societal structures break down.