Power is defined as the capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events. Though humans are the first common portrayal of power, it can sometimes be represented with ordinary objects. William Golding uses two contrasting items that ultimately influence the behavior of the boys on the island. The smooth conch shell and the rotting sow's head become clear models of good and evil as the story progresses. It’s purity, which is how the society started, was overtaken by the wicked of the pig's head. In the novel, Lord of the Flies, the sow's head and the conch shell represent the evolution of human society. In the novel Lord of the Flies, the sow's head and the conch shell both represent the evolution of
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In past times, the killing of a human was a very common practice, especially during the French Revolution. There was connection between the savagery of the boys and the beheading of people during the late 1700's. The act of beheading was used against any individual who went against higher authorities. As the boys beheaded the pig, Jack declared, "This head is for the beast. It's a gift." (Golding, 137) giving the carcass power. Simon had a connection with the sow's head, but in a negative way. However did not listen to Jack, and "ran against power". Later, the lack of control of the boys led to the death of Simon. However, Jack and Roger were looking to intentionally smite the rebel. When the sow’s head was placed on the stake, it became an example of fear as well. Making the boys feel obligated to choose either to follow and live or rebel and die. Later, the hunters were seen as powerful people because they were the ones to gather survival necessities. As the sow's began to decompose, flies began to circle its head. The flies were similar to worshipers, swarming and adoring the wickedness. They appeared to be hypnotized by the darkness within the pig. The boys grew more vulnerable to the self-corruption represented by the savagery and uncontrollable
In past times, the killing of a human was a very common practice, especially during the French Revolution. There was connection between the savagery of the boys and the beheading of people during the late 1700's. The act of beheading was used against any individual who went against higher authorities. As the boys beheaded the pig, Jack declared, "This head is for the beast. It's a gift." (Golding, 137) giving the carcass power. Simon had a connection with the sow's head, but in a negative way. However did not listen to Jack, and "ran against power". Later, the lack of control of the boys led to the death of Simon. However, Jack and Roger were looking to intentionally smite the rebel. When the sow’s head was placed on the stake, it became an example of fear as well. Making the boys feel obligated to choose either to follow and live or rebel and die. Later, the hunters were seen as powerful people because they were the ones to gather survival necessities. As the sow's began to decompose, flies began to circle its head. The flies were similar to worshipers, swarming and adoring the wickedness. They appeared to be hypnotized by the darkness within the pig. The boys grew more vulnerable to the self-corruption represented by the savagery and uncontrollable