How is the box a symbol in the film 'Life Is Beautiful' by Roberto Benigni?

Guido sends Giosuy to hide in a box next to a wall. This box is shown several times during the film and becomes a symbol of being in hiding. The first time we see the box, it is simply focused on by the camera as everyone enters the concentration camp. Although we don't know it at the time, the box will eventually become a major symbol of the film. The concentration camp is a hidden place in Germany, and the rest of the world was also hiding from the reality of the war at the time.

The second time we see the box, Guido shows Giosuy that a young boy is hiding inside. Giosuy has stopped believing Guido's story that many other children are around the area hiding as well. When Guido notices a young German boy playing hide-and-seek with his friends, he quickly shows him to Giosuy. Little does Giosuy know that one day he will also hide in the box.

At the end of the film, Guido forces Giosuy to hide in the box and makes him promise to stay there until everyone else has left. With all the fighting and the Germans trying to destroy the "evidence," hiding is the only hope for Giosuy's survival. Guido's plan works as Giosuy remains in hiding and is eventually found by the American soldiers.