Lord Of The Flies Essay

“Lord of the Flies” is a deeply thought-provoking and allegorical novel written by William Golding. The novel was published in 1954 and delves into human nature’s darker aspects. This classic literature novel explores themes of civilization vs. savagery, the loss of innocence, and the inherent capacity for evil within every individual. 

Through its vivid characters and compelling narrative, “Lord of the Flies” serves as a profound commentary on the fragility of societal norms and the primal instincts that creep underneath the surface. At the core of the novel, one can see the conflict between civilization and savagery.

The novel starts with a group of British schoolboys trapped on a deserted island after their plane crashes. Initially, they attempted to establish order by electing a leader and creating rules. However, as time passes and fear sets in, the civilized facade of the boys starts to crumble. There are many characters in the novel, of which Ralph and Jack are prominent ones.

Ralph’s character symbolizes democratic values, civilization, teamwork, and so on. In contrast, the character of Jack Merridew represents savagery, dictatorship, violence, and so on. 

The loss of innocence is another central theme in “Lord of the Flies.” The boys’ gradual transformation from innocent children into ruthless savages poignantly displays the corrupting influence of their newfound freedom and isolation. This loss of innocence is most apparent in the character of Roger, who evolves from a timid and obedient boy into a sadistic and violent force. His actions, particularly the murder of Piggy, underscore the darkness that resides within individuals when removed from the constraints of society.

Throughout the novel, Golding employs symbolism to convey deeper meanings. The most iconic symbol is the conch shell, which represents order, democracy, and the power of authority. In the beginning, the conch is used to call meetings and maintain order among the boys. However, as chaos ensues, the conch loses its authority, symbolizing the breakdown of civilization. The emergence of the “beast” on the island also serves as a symbol, representing the primal and irrational fears that grip the boys’ minds, driving them further into savagery.

Moreover, the character of Simon embodies a Christ-like figure, representing purity and an innate goodness that is tragically misunderstood and ultimately destroyed by the other boys. Simon’s hallucinatory encounter with the “Lord of the Flies,” a severed pig’s head on a stick, unveils the true nature of evil that lurks within each boy. 

Golding’s narrative style in “Lord of the Flies” is gripping and haunting. His vivid descriptions of the tropical island create a sense of isolation and foreboding, setting the stage for the boys’ descent into savagery. The dialogue and interactions between the characters are both authentic and unsettling, allowing readers to delve deep into the psyche of each boy.

In conclusion, “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding is a powerful and enduring work of literature that offers a compelling exploration of human nature. Through its examination of the struggle between civilization and savagery, the loss of innocence, and the use of symbolism, Golding paints a bleak but thought-provoking picture of the potential for darkness that resides within us all. This novel remains a stark reminder of the fragility of societal norms and the capacity for evil that lies dormant in the human soul, making it a timeless and essential piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.