Two separate illustrations of an animal head and a fire on a mountain

Lord of the Flies

by William Golding

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Themes: Inclusion vs. Exclusion

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From the boys’ first meeting, the group contains clear lines of social stratification. The intersections of power and maturity are prevalent when looking at the differences between the littluns and the biguns. The littluns are objects of scorn for most of the biguns, who view them as annoying and, in extreme cases, disposable. Jack’s proposal that a littlun be used as a pig in a mock-hunt is met with laughter and cheers, and even Ralph finds himself hoping the beast “prefers littluns.” This attitude highlights the dangers faced by those in the lower rungs of society, often at the hands of those in power. 

Simon and Piggy represent different types of outsiders. Whereas the littluns are shunned as a group, Simon and Piggy are excluded on an individual basis. Piggy is an object of ridicule due to his corpulent appearance and his fixation on rules and order in a society that is unraveling towards chaos. Simon is an outcast somewhat by choice, seeking out solitude and seeing the world through a different lens. His peculiar personality leads the other boys to view him as “batty,” enhancing his isolation. The dangers of an isolated individual are made evident through the deaths of Simon and Piggy, both of whom were vulnerable because of their exclusion from the group. 

The hunt for Ralph at the end of the novel reflects how mob mentality results in the dehumanization of those deemed “outsiders.” Ralph is hunted like an animal and denied his humanity on account of being an outcast. Because of Jack’s jealousy and resentment, there is no place for Ralph in the tribe, so he is forced to fend for himself. Ultimately, he is saved only by the arrival of the naval officer, whose presence forcibly reinstates civilization, along with its value of inclusivity. 

Expert Q&A

What does the quote "By the time the pile was built, they were on different sides of a high barrier" in Lord of the Flies mean?

The quote "By the time the pile was built, they were on different sides of a high barrier" signifies both a literal and metaphorical division between Ralph and Jack. While Ralph focuses on maintaining the signal fire, Jack prioritizes hunting, leading to a clash of leadership styles and values. This scene illustrates the growing rift and opposing worldviews—Ralph's common sense versus Jack's impulsive, bloodthirsty leadership—foreshadowing further conflict among the boys on the island.

What was William Golding's portrayal of group dynamics in Lord of the Flies?

William Golding portrays group dynamics in "Lord of the Flies" as fragile and susceptible to fear, carnal desires, and "groupthink," a concept where irrational decisions are made due to peer pressure. This leads to dehumanization and chaos, as seen when Samneric abandon their duties, Simon is killed in a frenzy, and Ralph is hunted. The boys' fear and desire for freedom drive them to follow Jack, illustrating how easily group cohesion can dissolve under pressure.

The metaphor of Ralph and Jack as "two continents of experience and feeling unable to communicate" in "Lord of the Flies."

The metaphor of Ralph and Jack as "two continents of experience and feeling unable to communicate" in "Lord of the Flies" illustrates the profound divide between their perspectives and values. Ralph represents order and civilization, while Jack symbolizes savagery and chaos. Their inability to understand each other underscores the broader conflict between these opposing forces within human nature.

Jack's tribe's reaction to Ralph's talk of rescue in Lord of the Flies

Jack's tribe reacts dismissively and mockingly to Ralph's talk of rescue in Lord of the Flies. They are more focused on their immediate desires and the power dynamics within the group, showing a complete disregard for the hope of returning to civilization.

The theme of belonging in Lord of the Flies

The theme of belonging in Lord of the Flies explores the human need for social acceptance and group identity. As the boys form tribes, their sense of belonging influences their behavior, leading to conformity and loss of individuality. This theme highlights how the desire to belong can drive people to adopt collective norms, sometimes at the expense of moral judgement.

Emerging Groups and Their Objectives in Lord of the Flies

In William Golding's Lord of the Flies, two distinct groups emerge among the boys, each with opposing objectives. Ralph's group prioritizes rescue and survival, focusing on maintaining a signal fire and building shelters, representing civility and order. Conversely, Jack's group is driven by primal instincts, prioritizing hunting and immediate gratification, which leads to a descent into savagery. As the novel progresses, this division deepens, with most boys gravitating towards Jack's anarchic leadership, foreshadowing conflict and chaos.

Examples of prejudice in Lord of the Flies

Examples of prejudice in Lord of the Flies include the boys' treatment of Piggy, who is ridiculed and marginalized due to his weight, asthma, and intellectual demeanor. Additionally, the boys exhibit a fear and distrust of the "beast," which symbolizes their prejudices and irrational fears. These instances highlight the inherent biases and discriminatory attitudes that emerge in the group.

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