Question

What are the major symbols in the novel: The Maze Runner? How do these symbols interact/reveal/emphasize the plot, setting, characters, conflict, etc?

Answer 1

The Maze is a complex symbol representing both chaos and order. Every night the walls move and shift, making it harder for the Gladers to find an exit. These constant changes along with the apparent impossibility of actually solving the Maze make most of the Gladers see the Maze as a symbol of futility and chaos. Yet, like all labyrinths, the Maze only appears chaotic and random. Thomas teaches the Gladers to adopt a new, more all-inclusive perspective when viewing the Maze in order to see the rationality in its construction. As Thomas realizes, instead of shifting randomly, the Maze’s wall change in the same way according to a pattern that repeats itself on a monthly basis. While the boys were only trying to solve each section of the Maze individually, Thomas shows them that if they look at the Maze as a whole, then they will see that patterns in the Maze actually spell out a code word. As such, the Maze reveals how things and events that seem chaotic can actually be seen as ordered when looked at from a new perspective.

Answer 2

The Maze Runner Symbols:

• The Maze. The Maze is a complex symbol representing both chaos and order

• The Glade. The Maze also represents the trials of adolescence

• The Cliff. In contrast to the chaos that the Maze appears to represent, the Glade appears to symbolize order, stability, and security

• The Changing

Consequently, what is the symbolism of the maze runner?

The Maze is a symbol that represents both chaos and order for the Gladers. Every night, the walls of the Maze move and shift, making it harder for the Gladers to find an exit. The Doors close every night as well, symbolizing routine and order in the otherwise chaotic Maze.