Symbolism Lord of the Flies

​Exploring Symbolism: Lord of the Flies

By Mr Stiles

Bell Ringer

In your own words, write the definition for each of the following: Claim, Reason, Evidence

Open Ended

Bell Ringer

in your own words, write the definition for each of the following:

Claim

Reason

Evidence

Symbolism

​Replace with sub-header

Symbolism is when an object, person, or situation represents something beyond its literal meaning, like an idea, emotion, or quality. Authors use it to add layers to their stories without spelling everything out.

Why it matters: It makes reading more engaging and helps us think about big themes like fear, power, or society.

Symbols aren't just in books—they're in TV and films too!

​

Examples of Symbolism

​In Wednesday (Netflix): Ravens symbolize mystery, omens, and foresight, often appearing in visions or as school motifs.

Examples of Symbolism

In The Summer I Turned Pretty (Prime Video): Water (like the pool or ocean) symbolizes solace, security, and personal identity for the main character.

Examples of Symbolism

In Stranger Things (Netflix, Season 5 finale buzz): The Upside Down symbolizes hidden fears, trauma, and the "other side" of normal life; flickering lights signal danger or the veil thinning.

Examples of Symbolism

in the Marvel Avengers Film Series, we are told that Tony Stark's Arc Reactor symbolizes his heart:
keeping shrapnel from his heart, and a metaphor for his transformation, powering his heroism and representing his evolving conscience, guilt, and ultimate sacrifice

Examples of Symbolism

- Quick Book Recap: Boys stranded on an island try to create order but slide into savagery. Symbols reveal big ideas about human nature.
- Core Themes: Civilization vs. savagery, fear of the unknown, loss of innocence, power struggles.
- Connection to Pop Culture: Just like the Upside Down in Stranger Things hides inner darkness, the island reveals what’s inside the boys.

Literal: A shell used as a horn to call meetings and give the speaker the floor.
- Symbolic Meaning: Democracy, order, civilized rules—whoever holds it has a voice.
- In the Book: It starts strong (unity).

- Pop Culture Tie-In: Like a crown or invitation in Bridgerton symbolizing status/authority—or the trident in Percy Jackson claiming heritage.

- Literal: Specs used to start fires by focusing sunlight.
- Symbolic Meaning: Reason, science, intelligence, technology.
- In the Book: Broken/stolen = loss of rational thinking; savagery takes over.

Open Ended

Why might authors use symbols instead of just saying things directly?

Open Ended

When it is night time on the Island, something happens to the boys. Given what we know about night on the Island, what does the darkness of night time symbolize?