What is a sow in Lord of the Flies? If you’ve come across the word “sow” while reading Lord of the Flies, you might be wondering exactly what it means and why it’s important in the story. In the novel, a sow is a female pig, and there’s a memorable scene where the boys hunt and kill one. In this article, we’ll look at what a sow is in Lord of the Flies and why this animal plays such a significant role in the novel’s themes and events.
What is a sow in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, a sow is a female pig. The term comes up during one of the most important—and disturbing—scenes in the novel, when Jack and his hunters track down and kill a mother pig in the forest. Golding describes the moment: “The sow collapsed under them and they were heavy and fulfilled upon her. The butterflies still danced, preoccupied in the center of the clearing.” This brutal scene shows how far the boys have slipped into savagery, as they not only kill the sow but also use her head as an offering to the imagined beast, calling it “the Lord of the Flies.” The use of the word “sow” highlights both the innocence of their victim and the violence of their actions.
What does the sow represent in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, the sow—and especially its head—represents savagery, the innate evil within human beings, and even serves as a symbol of Satan. When the boys put the sow’s head on a stick as an offering to the “beast,” it becomes known as the Lord of the Flies, showing just how deeply they’ve given in to their darkest instincts.
What did the hunters do with the sow after they have killed it?
After Jack and his hunters kill the sow, they decide to leave part of it as an offering for the beast. They cut off the pig’s head, and Jack tells Roger to “sharpen a stick at both ends.” Then, Jack places the head on the stick and says, “This head is for the beast. It’s a gift.” This moment shows how far the boys have slipped into superstition and savagery.
What color is the pig in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, the pig—or sow—that the boys hunt is described as being black. This detail helps you picture the scene and adds to the wild, uneasy feeling of the hunt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, in Lord of the Flies, a sow is a female pig. This animal is an important symbol, especially when the boys hunt it. The hunt shows how savage they’ve become and marks a turning point in their loss of innocence.