Saint Augustine once stated, "Symbols are powerful because they are the visible signs of invisible realities.” This quote is represented through the many prominent symbols in Lord of the Flies. It explains how the symbols have a deeper meaning than one may first see, which is true for the beast and the conch. In the novel Lord of the Flies, author William Golding depicts the two important symbols, the beast and the conch. The importance is shown by the use of symbols, meaning and symbolism, along with character relations. The conch and the beast are used for many major purposes, such as the beast being used as a fearful tool to gain power. This is the opposite of the conch, as it is used for civil meetings. This is shown through the quote (Golding 177), “He may come back again even though we gave him the head of our kill to eat. So watch; and be careful.” Although the narrator does not come right out and say it, …show more content…
The conch relates most to Jack, Ralph, and Piggy. The beast represents Jack, Roger, and their tribe, although the beast does reflect Simon. The quote, "We don’t need the conch anymore." We know who ought to say things.” (Golding 110-111) From the beginning, Jack despises not being the leader. He tries to argue that the conch is not necessary, as people should just say what they believe. This represents Jack’s idea that they don’t need to be civilized and instead should just do what they want. Jack rejecting the conch symbolizes his dismissal of civilization and manners. The conch is also a huge symbol of Ralph and his power. It illustrates Ralph’s role and power as leader, but as the conch loses its worth, Ralph loses control over the boys. Piggy also has an important relationship with the conch, as, throughout the story, Piggy stands for sanity and brains. Before Piggy’s death, he holds onto the conch as tightly as he can, as he doesn’t want to lose the last little bit of