Characters
The novel's protagonist. Which boy was the elected leader and moves the story forward?
Ralph
The author of Lord of the Flies.
William Golding
Represents order, authority, and democracy.
The Conch
The two competing impulses that exist within human beings.
Civilization vs. Savagery / Good vs. Evil
Ralph's "lieutenant". An intelligent boy that discovered the Conch. His character represents the rational, intellectual side of civilization.
Piggy
William Golding was a member of The ____ Navy.
The Royal Navy
Symbolizes intelligence, rationality, and science.
Piggy's Glasses
The boys' attitude toward the beast shows how this emotion can influence people's decision even when they lack evidence that the threat is real.
Fear
The novel's antagonist. This boy becomes the leader of the hunters but longs for complete power over the island. He represents the savage side of humanity.
Jack
William Golding's inspiration for Lord of the Flies.
His experience in the navy and how that shifted his view on humanity.
Symbolizes hope, rescue, and a connection to the civilized world.
The Signal Fire
The boys begin the novel excited about their freedom, but their freedom continues to lead to conflict and fear. What theme is Golding highlighting?
Freedom without responsibility/structure can lead to chaos.
The year Lord of the Flies was published.
1954
Symbolizes the boys' internal fear, superstition, and savagery.
The Beast
Ralph repeatedly emphasizes the importance of this, showing his desire to recreate the structure of society they left behind.
Order
A shy, sensitive boy in the group. This boy cares for the younger kids and could be considered the only naturally "good" character in the novel. He struggles to speak up to authority figures. Who is he?
Simon
World War II
Symbolizes the permanent effect humans bring to nature and inherent corruption that follows.
The "Scar"
The boys initially fear the monster outside themselves, but Golding gradually suggests that the true danger may come from this source.
Human nature/the darkness within people.