# The Island as a Character: An Analysis of LOST’s Unique Setting
The hit TV series LOST captivated audiences with its intricate plot, compelling characters, and mysterious setting. While the show’s characters were certainly the main focus, the island they were stranded on played a crucial role in the story. In fact, the island itself could be considered a character in its own right.
From the moment the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815 crashed onto the island, viewers knew that this was no ordinary place. Strange occurrences, such as the polar bears and the black smoke monster, hinted at a world beyond what the characters knew. As the show went on, it became clear that the island was more than just a backdrop – it was a force in and of itself.
## The Island as a Setting
At first glance, the island seems like any other tropical paradise. Beautiful beaches, lush jungle, and sparkling ocean waters are all present. However, as the survivors explore their new home, they begin to realize that there is something different about this place. The island is home to unique and otherworldly features that set it apart from any other location on earth.
One of the most intriguing things about the island is the presence of strange electromagnetic energy. This energy is responsible for many of the strange occurrences on the island, including the time travel and the formation of the rift between the Man in Black and Jacob. The source of the energy is never fully explained, but it is clear that it is a powerful and dangerous force.
## The Island’s Role in the Plot
While the survivors of Flight 815 are certainly the protagonists of the show, the island is a major player in the plot. The island is home to the Dharma Initiative, a scientific research group that was studying the electromagnetic energy. The Dharma Initiative’s experiments are what caused the unique features of the island, such as the polar bears and the time travel.
The island is also home to the Others, a group of people who have been living on the island for a long time. The Others are led by Ben Linus, who uses the island’s unique properties to manipulate the survivors and further his own agenda. The conflict between the survivors and the Others is a major driving force of the show’s plot.
## The Island’s Symbolic Meaning
The island can also be seen as a character with symbolic meaning. Throughout the show, the island is referred to as a sort of purgatory, a place where the characters are forced to confront their past and make amends for their mistakes. The island is also seen as a place of redemption – many of the characters are able to find inner peace and forgiveness through their experiences on the island.
Additionally, the island can be seen as a metaphor for life itself. The characters must navigate the island’s dangers and difficulties in order to survive. In many ways, their journey on the island mirrors the struggle of human existence – we must navigate the challenges life throws at us in order to find our way.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, the island in LOST is more than just a setting – it is a character in its own right. The island’s unique properties, its role in the plot, and its symbolic meaning all contribute to its importance in the show. Whether you view the island as a force of nature or a metaphor for life, it is clear that it is a crucial element in the story of LOST.
