OBJECT
Conch
Glasses
Fire
Jack
Ralph
The Beast
Island
Darkness
The Mountain
Forest
Beach
Piggy
Rodger
Simon
The Littluns
Rocks/Boulders
LITERAL USE/APPEARANCE in the book
FIGURATIVE MEANING and SYMBOLISM
Have each member of the group grab a sheet of computer paper.
For each symbol you’ve either drafted or chosen, do the following:
a) draw a picture of the symbol
b) write about the literal use of the symbol in the book
c) write about the possible figurative/symbolic meanings of the symbol
____________________________________________________________________
Example: Piggy’s glasses
Literally: Piggy uses his glasses to correct his problem vision. The group also uses the glasses
to light the fire. Other kids pick on Piggy for wearing his glasses.
Figuratively/Symbolically: The glasses might symbolize intelligence. We usually associate
intelligence with people who wear them. Often we say that good vision is, in fact, intelligence.
Additionally, they provide power in lighting the fire. Since they are able to provide light, they
may symbolize a source of their hopes. Moreover, since they are manufactured and cannot be
replaced, they symbolize their connection to civilized society. As they break, it may represent
further breaks from their home.
OBJECT
SYMBOLIC MEANING
Conch
Authority, order
Glasses
Ability to see clearly, to perceive what is best
Fire
Civilization, the hearth, hope, community celebration
Lord of the Flies
Pig's head on a stick, symbol of the evil in the boys (and in
humanity)
Mask
Facade, means of hiding self from self
Beast
The Devil, decay, destruction
Island
A microcosm of the world
Darkness
Ignorance, fear, superstition
Mountain
Perspective, power, truth, barrier
Forest
Fear, violence, unknown, hiding
Beach
Safety, openness, games, communication
Castle Rock
Punishment, violence, restraint
Jack's hair
Caused Jack's loss of focus
Flies
Corruption