Hondana
Lord of the Flies
By William Golding
Faber & Faber
Description
A plane crashes on a desert island and the only survivors, a group of schoolboys, assemble on the beach and wait to be rescued. By day they inhabit a land of bright fantastic birds and dark blue seas, but at night their dreams are haunted by the image of a terrifying beast. As the boys' delicate sense of order fades, so their childish dreams are transformed into something more primitive, and their behaviour starts to take on a murderous, savage significance.
First published in 1954, Lord of the Flies is one of the most celebrated and widely read of modern classics. Now fully revised and updated, this educational edition includes chapter summaries, comprehension questions, discussion points, classroom activities, a biographical profile of Golding, historical context relevant to the novel and an essay on Lord of the Flies by William Golding entitled 'Fable'. Aimed at Key Stage 3 and 4 students, it also includes a section on literary theory for advanced or A-level students. The educational edition encourages original and independent thinking while guiding the student through the text - ideal for use in the classroom and at home.
Summary by AI
Authors' Background
- William Golding (1911-1993) was a British novelist, poet, and playwright. He served in the Royal Navy during World War II, an experience that profoundly influenced his writing. Golding's works often explore themes of human nature, morality, and the darker aspects of society.
Main Theme
- The novel explores the inherent evil within human nature and the breakdown of civilization when removed from societal structures. It examines how easily individuals can revert to savagery and primal instincts.
Key Points
- A group of British schoolboys are stranded on a deserted island after their plane is shot down during a war.
- The boys attempt to establish a society, electing Ralph as their leader and Piggy as his advisor.
- Jack, the leader of the choirboys, challenges Ralph's authority and forms his own tribe focused on hunting.
- The boys' descent into savagery is marked by the neglect of the signal fire, the pursuit of hunting, and the fear of a "beast" on the island.
- Piggy, representing intellect and reason, is murdered, symbolizing the complete triumph of savagery over civilization.
- Ralph is hunted by Jack's tribe, but is saved by a naval officer who arrives on the island, representing the return of adult society.
Reputation
- Good: Considered a classic of English literature, praised for its allegorical depth, powerful imagery, and exploration of complex themes. It is often studied in schools and universities.
- Bad: Some critics find the novel overly pessimistic and the characters somewhat archetypal. The portrayal of children's behavior has been debated as unrealistic by some.
Who Should Read It
- Readers interested in allegorical fiction, psychological thrillers, and explorations of human nature.
- Those who enjoy thought-provoking novels that challenge conventional views of society and morality.
- Students studying literature and those interested in classic novels.
Similar Books
- The Coral Island by R.M. Ballantyne (a contrasting novel with a more optimistic view of human nature)
- The Children's Story by James Clavell
- The Road by Cormac McCarthy
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