Final answer:
The conch shell is the symbol of authority and order in 'Lord of the Flies,' representing democracy and the boys' attempt at civil order. Historically, various symbols like bronze mirrors and statues have denoted authority in different cultures, and symbols like the Presidential Seal hold similar power today.
Step-by-step explanation:
The symbol of authority and order in the context given is e. The conch shell. In William Golding's novel 'Lord of the Flies', the conch shell is used to symbolize civilization, order, and authority. When the boys agree that the holder of the conch gets to speak, the shell becomes a powerful symbol of democracy and order.
Similarly to how bronze mirrors represented authority in ancient times, the conch represents the boys' attempt to establish a civil order on the island.
Throughout history, symbols have played a crucial role in representing authority and power. For instance, in ancient Egypt, artifacts such as a painted wooden model of a deceased overseeing the counting of cattle and funeral procession imagery symbolized the person’s status and the order that governed their society.
In modern times, symbolic interactionism considers the ways figures and emblems, such as The Seal of the President of the United States, represent power and authority within government.