A Study of Civilization, Savagery, and Human Nature in Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Author(s): Nandini K Janbandhu

Abstract:

William Golding’s Lord of the Flies (1954) is a dystopian allegory set during a global war, where a group of British schoolboys stranded on a deserted island attempt to govern themselves. What begins as an attempt at order and rescue quickly collapses into fear, violence, and murder. Through character allegory, symbolism, and major themes like the loss of innocence, mob mentality, and inherent evil, Golding argues that civilization is only a thin layer over humanity’s primal savage instincts. This paper analyzes the plot, characters, themes, and symbols to demonstrate how the novel presents a pessimistic view of human nature and the fragility of society.

keywords:
Lord of the Flies, William Golding, Civilization, Savagery, Allegory, Mob Mentality, Loss of Innocence

Pages: 70-71     |    2 View     |    2 Download