The Conch Shell In Lord Of The Flies

One of major symbol throughout the novel, the conch shell, is used many times so symbolize authority on the island. The conch shell, found by Ralph and Piggy in the beginning of the book, is passed around at meetings. Whoever has the shell can talk, even though many boys break that rule. This helps make sure that all boys can have an opinion. This also means that no matter what age, height, appearance or personality, any boy can have an equal say in a matter without being shamed upon by the other boys. This democratic-way of running the island helps make sure that every opinion is valued, just like the homes are that the boys left. Ralph, the elected leader by the rest of the boys on the island, says at the first meeting “I’ll give the conch