In "Lord of the Flies", what object symbolizes authority and order?

In "Lord of the Flies," the conch shell symbolizes authority and order within the group of boys stranded on the island. From the moment it is discovered, it represents democratic power and civilized behavior, as the boys use it to call meetings and establish rules. The conch is initially respected, as it gives the person holding it the right to speak, ensuring everyone has a chance to share their thoughts and opinions. This embodies the principles of order and governance they attempt to maintain in the face of their descent into savagery. Over time, as the boys' descent into chaos accelerates, the respect for the conch diminishes, highlighting the fragility of civilization and the struggle against anarchy.

Other options do not carry the same symbolic weight regarding authority and order. The fire represents hope for rescue and survival, the glasses signify intelligence and the ability to perceive and create, while the knife is associated with violence and primal power rather than social structure.