The Lost Symbol

Transformation as a theme is introduced early in the novel during a discussion of the fresco that adorns the ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda, The Apotheosis of Washington. Apotheosis literally translates as “divine transformation” (105), introducing the idea of someone transforming themselves into a god. This theme is carried throughout the novel as Mal’akh envisions himself to be a god in the making. At the same time, the idea that a human can become a god is planted in these early chapters in order to foreshadow the revelation at the end of the novel that early scholars believed that humankind has the power to transform themselves into gods through the power of knowledge and thought.

The most obvious aspect of the theme of transformation is in the character of Mal’akh. The main antagonist of the story, Mal’akh begins as Zachary, the spoiled only son of Peter Solomon. When first given the choice of becoming a Mason and taking on the honor of protecting the Masonic pyramid, he is too young and immature to understand the importance of what his father is offering him. Zachary, like most young men, chooses to take his monetary inheritance and quickly sets out to spend it all on fast cars, beautiful women, and illegal drugs.