essay topics lord of the flies

Lord of the Flies

By william golding, lord of the flies essay questions.

In his introduction to William Golding's novel, novelist E.M. Forster suggests that Golding's writing "lays a solid foundation for the horrors to come." Using Forster's quote as a starting point, discuss how the novel foreshadows the murders of Simon and Piggy. Focus on two events or images from the novel's earlier chapters and describe how they anticipate the novel's tragic outcome.

Answer: The weather on the island grows increasingly more hostile and ominous as the novel's plot unfolds, Piggy's name suggests that he will be killed like an animal, and so on.

Many critics have read Lord of the Flies as a political allegory. In particular, they have considered the novel a commentary on the essential opposition between totalitarianism and liberal democracy. Using two or three concrete examples from the novel, show how the two political ideologies are figured in the novel, and then discuss which of the two you think Golding seems to favor.

Answer: The contrast between Ralph's group on the beach and Jack's tribe at Castle Rock represents the opposition between liberal democracy and totalitarianism. Golding presents the former as the superior system, demonstrated by the success of the assembly among Jack's group of boys and the ordered system that prioritizes the ongoing signal fire on the mountain, tactics that ensure the welfare of the entire group. Note, though, what happens in both groups over time.

Names and naming are important in Lord of the Flies. Many characters have names that allude to other works of literature, give insight into their character, or foreshadow key events. Discuss the significance of the names of, for instance, Sam and Eric, Piggy, and Simon. What does the character's name say about him and his significance? Use external sources as necessary.

Answer: Piggy's name, for example, indicates his inferior position within the social hierarchy of the island and foreshadows his eventual death at the hands of Jack's tribe. Simon was the name of Peter in the Bible. Jack might be named after John Marcher in Henry James's story The Beast in the Jungle , and so on.

Two major symbols in the novel are the conch shell and The Lord of the Flies (the pig's head on a stick). Analyze one or both of these symbols in terms of how they are perceived by the boys as well as what they symbolize for the reader.

Answer: The conch shell represents liberal democracy and order, as endorsed by Ralph and Piggy. The Lord of the Flies tends to represent an autocratic or a primitive order. Note the "exchange" of these objects at the novel's conclusion when the conch is smashed in Jack's camp and Ralph uses part of the Lord of the Flies as a weapon.

The children stranded on the island are all boys, and female characters are rarely discussed. How does this matter for the novel?

Answer: Gender difference is not explicitly discussed or represented in the novel, although femininity is symbolically present in the novel's representations of nature. Some of the male characters are "feminized" by the other boys when they are considered un-masculine or vulnerable. In a boys' choir, many boys have high voices that can sing parts normally reserved for females. It is unclear whether Jack's tribe would have become so violent (and nearly naked) if girls of the same age were on the island.

At the end of Chapter Eleven, Roger pushes Jack aside to descend on the bound twins "as one who wielded a nameless authority." Focusing on this quotation, discuss Roger's actions in Chapter Eleven in relation to Jack's power and political system.

Answer: Roger's actions towards the twins are unauthorized by Jack, indicating that Jack's own authority is under threat. Golding hints at a shift in the power system among Jack's tribe, which highlights the inherent flaws in Jack's system of military dictatorship.

Jack gains power over many of the boys by exploiting their fear of the mythical beast. How does Jack manipulate the myth of the beast to legitimize his authority?

Answer: Jack exploits the boys' fear of the beast to usurp leadership from Ralph, who stresses a rational approach to the presumed evil presence on the island. Within Jack's tribe, the beast continues to have a powerful symbolic and political significance among the boys, uniting them and ensuring their loyalty to Jack's leadership. When Jack first attempts to break away from Ralph's tribe, his authority is not recognized, but as the boys' fear of the beast increases, an increasing number defect from Ralph's group to Jack's, where the existence of the beast is not only acknowledged but is a central fact of day-to-day life.

By Chapter Three, the boys are divided into two groups: the older boys and the younger boys or "littluns." What role do the littluns have to play?

Answer: Consider especially the distinction between savagery and civilization.

What happens with the "littluns" registers the increasing brutality on the island. The earliest examples of violence in the novel are directed against the littluns, acts that foreshadow the violent events of later chapters. Moreover, characters who are kind to the littluns tend to remain most closely associated with civilization throughout the novel.

The novel's narrative action draws an increasingly firm line between savagery and civilization, yet the value of each becomes an issue in the conclusion, when Jack's fire saves the boys. Using these terms, what is the novel suggesting about human nature, evil, and human civilization?

Answer: The naval officer is a military figure, which reminds the reader that "civilized" societies also engage in violence and murder. Evil seems to be a force that threatens human nature and human civilization--from within. Still, evil is associated primarily with savagery and the worse part of our natures.

How does the novel reflect the Cold War and the public's concerns about the conflict between democracy and communism? Does the novel take a side? (Remember to cite all of your research sources in your bibliography.)

Answer: The Cold War was primarily between the democratic U.S. and its allies on the one hand, and the communist U.S.S.R. and its allies on the other hand. The initial events of the novel, following a group of boys in the aftermath of a terrible nuclear war, reflect and capitalize on widespread anxiety about the arms race for destructive atomic weapons. Ralph comes to represent the West and its values, while Jack comes to represent the enemy.

Lord of the Flies Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for Lord of the Flies is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Who turned out to be the "creature"?

The dead pilot turned out to be the creature. Ironically the boys also thought that Simon was the creature before they killed him.

What new substance does Jack use to facilitate his hunting?

Jack uses a spear to hunt the pig. He also puts barbs on the end so they stick into the flesh.

how did william goldings life influence his writing

Golding's experiences working with unruly boys as a teacher and his time as a combatant in WWII, inspired Lord of the Flies. He saw much combat in the war and this novel is a reflection on Golding's views on the human condition. He believed evil...

Study Guide for Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies study guide contains a biography of William Golding, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About Lord of the Flies
• Lord of the Flies Summary
• Lord of the Flies Video
• Character List

Essays for Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of Lord of the Flies by William Golding.

• Two Faces of Man
• The Relationship Between Symbolism and Theme in Lord of the Flies
• A Tainted View of Society
• Death and Social Collapse in Lord of the Flies
• Lumination: The Conquest of Mankind's Darkness

Lesson Plan for Lord of the Flies

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to Lord of the Flies
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• Lord of the Flies Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for Lord of the Flies

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William Golding

• Literature Notes
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• Lord of the Flies at a Glance
• Book Summary
• About Lord of the Flies
• Character List
• Summary and Analysis
• Character Analysis
• Character Map
• William Golding Biography
• Critical Essays
• Major Themes
• Concept, Identity, and Manifestations of the Beast
• Golding's Use of the Fable Structure
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Study Help Essay Questions

1. In Chapter 5, Golding writes, "In a moment the platform was full of arguing, gesticulating shadows. To Ralph, seated, this seemed the breaking up of sanity." How is sanity defined? How does this novel contribute to an understanding of sanity and of madness? What are some other instances of madness in the novel?

2. Explain Piggy's point of view when he responds, "Course there aren't [ghosts] . . . 'Cos things wouldn't make sense. Houses an' streets, an' — TV — they wouldn't work" (Chapter 5). What does Piggy mean when he says that technology couldn't function if a supernatural beings existed?

3. Ralph says in Chapter 12 "there was that indefinable connection between himself and Jack; who therefore would never let him alone; never." What is that connection? How does it develop and what does it signify?

4. When Simon sees the Lord of the Flies, Golding writes that his "gaze was held by that ancient inescapable recognition" (Chapter 8). What recognition is Golding referring to?

5. Why does Simon's role as a visionary make him an outcast in the group? What other visionaries have been outcasts in their societies?

6. How does Golding use color to link Jack with the Lord of the Flies? Are there other instances of Golding using color to link characters or provide symbolism?

7. In Chapter 11, when Ralph announces that he's calling an assembly, he is greeted with silence. How do silence and speech function in this novel, and why is silence so threatening to the boys?

8. In Chapter 3, Piggy asks the boys "How can you expect to be rescued if you don't put first things first and act proper?" What does Piggy mean by "act proper?" Why does he feel acting properly will bring them success in being rescued? Contrast this sentiment to the actual reason a rescue ship spots their smoke signal.

9. Who or what is being described with this phrase: "There was the brilliant world of hunting, tactics, fierce exhilaration, skill, and there was the world of longing and baffled common-sense" (Chapter 4)? How do the two worlds represent facets of humanity?

10. Describe some of the ways the vision of a human "at once heroic and sick" (Chapter 6) is represented in the novel and within the larger context of history as well. Does Golding prescribe a remedy for the "sickness"?

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Lord of the Flies

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A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

• Chapters 1-2
• Chapters 3-5
• Chapters 6-7
• Chapters 8-9
• Chapters 10-11
• Character Analysis
• Symbols & Motifs
• Important Quotes

Essay Topics

• Discussion Questions

Compare/contrast what happensin “normal” society with what happens on the island. Is the society that the boys make more similar or different than the society you know?

Why are there no girls on the island? Do you think that having both genders represented would alter how the boys treat one another?

Why does the “Lord of the Flies” (138)—the pig’s head—tell Simon he is in danger? How does this scene relate to the novel’s title?

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Most Fascinating Lord of the Flies Topics to Write about

• The Treatment of Children in the Narrative of Lord of the Flies
• Xenophobia in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Sinfulness of Humanity in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• The Wickedness of People in Golding’s Lord Of The Flies
• A Research of Sigmund Freud’s Psychoanalysis Notion in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
• A Written Research of the Imagery in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Comparing William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and John Knowles A Separate Peace on Peer Pressure

Good Research Topics about Lord of the Flies

• The Reason Why William Golding’s Novel is Entitled The Lord of the Flies
• Golding’s Presentation on The Deterioration From Society to Barbarity In Lord Of The Flies
• How the Perception of God Transformed Throughout Lord of the Flies
• A Research of Human Characteristics in All Quiet on the Western Front and Lord of the Flies
• How Humanity Overpowers the Wicked in the Novel Lord of the Flies
• A Preview of Troubling Happenings Emphasized in William Golding’s Book, Lord of the Flies
• Parable of Societal Disbandment Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Good Leadership Exhibited by Ralph in the Novel Lord of the Flies
• Golding’s Negative Vision on Individuals and Humanity in His Book Lord of the Flies
• Researching the Subjects of Purity and Terror in William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies
• Unsuccessful Paradise in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
• How Iniquity Of Human Nature is Portrayed in Golding’s Lord of the Flies
• Goldings Expression of His Ideas About Headship in the Lord of the Flies
• Establishment of rules and Insight in Civilisation in Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies Essay Questions

• The Presentation of Golding in the Deterioration From Civilisation to Cruelty in “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Symbolization of Piggy in “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Reflection of the Second World War on “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Notions of Human Nature and Conduct Golding Expressed in “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Representation of Plane Crash in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How William Golding Introduced Jack in “Lord of the Flies”?
• Golding’s Notion About Leadership in “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Transformation of Roger in “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding?
• How Humanity Overpowers Evil in the Novel “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Presentation of Human Nature by the Author in “Lord of the Flies”
• William Golding’s Depiction of How Wickedness Works in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Anybody Is Capable of Degenerating into Cruelty in Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Is the Writer’s Categorization and Rhetoric Connected to the Novel of the “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Did William Golding Come Up With the Name “The Lord of the Flies”?
• Golding’s Presentation of Demise in “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Influence of the Setting in the Story “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Treatment of Children in the Story “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Significance of the Physical World as Depicted by Golding in “Lord of the Flies”?
• “Lord of the Flies” and Jim Jones: Are Humans Wicked by Nature?
• The Number of Boys in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Golding Builds Pressure in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does the Prologue Equip the Reader for the Rest of the Novel “Lord of the Flies”?
• The Use of Story Background Cultivate the Primary Theme of His Novel, “Lord of the Flies”?
• Why the Boys are Destined to Be Unsuccessful in “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Inspired Golding to Write “Lord of the Flies”?
• Golding’s Presentation of the Island in “Lord of the Flies”?
• Golding’s Use of Cyphers in “Lord of the Flies”?
• Development of Piggy’s Character Through Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Damaged Ralph and Jack’s Bond in “Lord of the Flies”?
• Golding’s Technique in Creating Setting in the “Lord of the Flies”?

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89 Lord of the Flies Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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• Ralph’s character development in Lord of the Flies.
• The main theme in Lord of the Flies.
• The success of William Golding’s debut novel.
• Lord of the Flies: a discussion of innocence and power.
• The role of the conch in Lord of the Flies.
• Civilization vs. savagery in Lord of the Flies.
• William Golding’s commentary on human nature and evil.
• The symbolism of fear in Lord of the Flies.
• A literary analysis of Lord of the Flies.
• Lord of the Flies: a summary of events.
• “Lord of Flies” by William Golding The reader will wonder that all the boys respond in the same manner to the sound of the blown shell. The author uses aesthetics to drive emotions out of the reader about the value of […]
• Literature Studies: “Lord of the Flies” by W. Golding Although Jack Merridew, one of the lead characters of William Golding’s shockingly unforgettable Lord of the Flies novel, is a child and still has a lot to learn in terms of how society works, the […]
• Human Nature in “Lord of the Flies” by Golding Considering this, the present paper will analyze the validity of the given statement by drawing on the experiences of characters in Lord of the Flies and evaluating the conditions in which they lived.
• Symbolism in “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding In The Lord of the Flies, the fire in the story is lit as a symbol of hope and rescue. The island in The Lord Of The Flies resembled the perfect type of Utopia at […]
• Lord of the Flies, an Allegorical Novel by William Golding As the auction proceeds, the reader follows the heartbreaking events of the book. Boys hunt down a pig and place its head on a stick as an ‘offering’ to the ‘beast’.
• Evil in “The Lord of the Flies” by William Golding The idea is that we are born with both the capacity of good and the capacity of evil and that the way we are raised, or the environment in which we live determines how we […]
• Lord of the Flies: Novel Analysis The sinister nature of the novel is inferred in the title which derives from the Hebrew word, Ba’al-zvuv which means god of the fly, host of the fly or literally the Lord of Flies a […]
• Writing on the Novel I Love: Lord of the Flies In a given Lord of the Flies essay, one needs to illustrate the different themes used by Golding in his novel.
• How Children Are Treated in the Story of Lord of the Flies
• Fear of the Unknown in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• A Comprehensive Analysis of the Key Elements of Lord of the Flies, a Novel by William Golding
• How Does Golding Present Simon in Lord of the Flies-What Is His Role
• Literary Comparison of Ballantyne’s Coral Island and Golding’s Lord of The Flies Island
• Jack as a Symbol of Savagery and Anarchy in Lord of the Flies, a Novel by William Golding
• Evil in Humanity in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Human Beings Are Evil: Golding’s Lord Of The Flies
• An Allegory of Sigmund Freud’s Psychoanalysis Theory in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
• A Literary Analysis of the Symbolism in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• A Description of the Potential For Evil in Everyone as One of the Theme in the Novel, Lord of the Flies By William Golding
• A Comparison Between the Movie and Novel The Lord of the Flies
• Abuse of Power and the Effect of Tyrannical Leadership Between Lord of the Flies and the Chrysalids
• A Comparison of Lord of the Flies by William Golding and A Separate Peace by John Knowles on Peer Pressure
• An Analysis of Different Symbols Used in Lord of the Flies, a Novel by William Golding
• Internal and External Conflicts in the Novel ”Lord of the Flies” by William Golding
• Importance of the Extract in the Development of the Main Themes in Lord of the Flies
• Destructiveness Of Jealousy Depicted In Lord Of The Flies And Woman Warrior
• A Demonstration of the Influence and Power of People Over One Another Through the Character of Piggy in the Novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• A Character of Piggy As the Character Who Most Deserved to Be Saved in the Novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Exploring Why William Golding Named His Novel The Lord of the Flies
• How Golding Presents The Decline From Civilisation To Savagery In Lord Of The Flies
• How the Conception of God Changed Throughout Lord of the Flies
• An Analysis of Human Behavior in All Quiet on the Western Front and Lord of the Flies
• How the Society Suppresses Evil in the Novel Lord of the Flies
• Inate Evil to Kill a Mocking Bird and Lord of the Flies
• A Look at Disturbing Events Highlighted in William Golding’s Book, Lord of the Flies
• Allegory of Social Dissolution Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• How Ralph is Shown as a Good Leader in the Novel Lord of the Flies
• An Analysis of Democratic and Authoritarian Power in Lord of the Flies, a Novel by William Golding
• Leaders and Leadership in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Golding’s Pessimistic View on People and Society in His Book Lord of the Flies
• Analyzing the Themes of Innocence and Fear in William Golding’s The Lord of the Flies
• A Description of the Occurrence of Civilization in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Importance of The Beast in Lord of The Flies by William Golding
• Golding’s Lord of the Flies: A Dream of a Deserted Island into Reality
• Good and Evil in Human Nature in Lord of the Flies by William Golding
• Failure of Paradise in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and William Golding’s Lord of the Flies
• Immorality Of Human Nature Depicted In Golding’s Lord Of The Flies
• How Does Golding Express His Ideas About Leadership in Lord of the Flies
• Formation of Rules and Perception of Civilisation in Lord of the Flies
• How Golding Presents the Decline From Civilisation to Savagery in “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Does Piggy Symbolize in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does the Second World War Reflect on “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Ideas About Human Nature and Behavior Golding Was Trying to Express in “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Does the Plane Crash Symbolize in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does William Golding Present the Character of Jack in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Golding Express His Ideas About Leadership in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Roger Change in “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding?
• How the Society Suppresses Evil in the Novel “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does the Author Present Human Nature in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does William Golding Show Evil at Work in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Anybody Could Regress Into Savagery in Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Is the Author’s Characterisation and Language Attributed to the Novel of the “Lord of the Flies”?
• Why Did William Golding Name His Novel “The Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Golding Present Death in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does the Setting Affect the Story “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Children Are Treated in the Story of “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Golding Make the Physical World Seem Important in “Lord of the Flies”?
• “Lord of the Flies” and Jim Jones: Are Humans Innately Evil?
• How Many Boys Are in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Golding Creates Tension in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does the Opening Prepare the Reader for the Rest of the Novel “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does William Golding Use the Setting to Develop the Main Theme of His Novel, “Lord of the Flies”?
• Why the Boys Were Doomed to Fail in “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Influenced William Golding to Write “Lord of the Flies”?
• Ways That Golding Presents the Island in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Golding Uses Symbols in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Piggy’s Character Develop Through Golding’s “Lord of the Flies”?
• What Ruined Ralph and Jack’s Friendship in “Lord of the Flies”?
• How Does Golding Create a Setting in the “Lord of the Flies”?
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Author: William Golding Book title: Lord of the Flies Date of the first publication: 1954 Genre: allegorical novel

‘Lord of the Flies’ is a classic piece of literature, full of symbolism and moral dilemmas that are still relevant today. The book follows a group of young boys stranded on an island and their attempts to survive and govern themselves. Through the characters and their behaviors, author William Golding paints a picture of humanity in its rawest form, showing that without structure or rules, even young children are capable of great brutality.

Civilization is just a veneer hiding the vile and repulsive nature of humanity. In the wilderness, there’s no space left for cultivated manners or moral principles.

According to most critics, these are the postulates that form the main message of ‘Lord of the Flies,’ the magnum opus of William Golding. As a far-reaching social critique, this powerful literary work still reverberates in today’s society, inspiring scholars to come up with compelling ‘Lord of the Flies’ essay topics and make their valuable contribution in the exploration of one of the most refined and sophisticated novels of the 20th century. Keeping up with the literary tendencies of today, our experts have joined the trend and crafted their own unique paper topics on this timeless novel!

‘Lord of the Flies’ Essay Topic Ideas

• How Ralph’s character develops throughout the novel.
• Ralph, Simon, Jack, and Piggy: what allegories each of the characters represents.
• The symbols in the novel ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how they help convey its main message.
• The concept of evil in the novel ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Good versus evil in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• ‘Lord of the Flies’ as the medium for demonstrating the vices of contemporary society.
• The significance of the imagery of the novel’s imagery.
• The symbolism of the Beast in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The imagery used to illustrate the severe social flaws in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• ‘Lord of the Flies’: the internal and external conflicts.
• The main characters of ‘Lord of the Flies’: why their innocence was lost.
• The breakdown of integrity and dignity in the novel.
• William Golding’s perspective of viewing humanity at large mirrored in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The mechanism by which the Beast affects the main characters.
• The pessimistic approach to evaluating society in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• ‘Lord of the Flies’ as an anthem to the doomed generation.
• The concept of eating in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Dazzled by fear: how the state of fright affects the characters of the novel.
• ‘Lord of the Flies’ as the metaphoric criticism of society.
• The theme of hatred in ‘Lord of the Flies.’

‘Lord of the Flies’ Research Paper Topics

• Power as one of the major themes in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The clash of savagery and civilization in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• ‘Lord of the Flies’: Jack and Ralph as the embodiment of two severely contrasting moral ideologies.
• Analyzing the characters of ‘Lord of the Flies’ through the studies of Sigmund Freud.
• The themes of order and chaos represented in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The confrontation between an exposed individual and the imposing community in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The overarching motive of destructive human impulse in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Comparing the theme of unbridled hatred in ‘Lord of the Flies’ by William Golding and ‘The Tempest’ by William Shakespeare.
• Polarization of isolation in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• ‘Lord of the Flies’: Piggy, Jack, and Ralph as the respective embodiment of Freud’s Id, Ego, and Super Ego.
• The rich blend of major literary genres in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The demolishing anarchy in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The Beast as the sharp metaphor for human violence and evil in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Atrocious permissiveness vs. uncorrupted virtue in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The representation of Nietzsche’s nihilistic philosophy of man in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The problems connected with coming of age in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The theme of obligation in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The psychological approach to analyzing the characters of ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The characters in ‘Lord of the Flies’ through the behaviorist theory.
• ‘Lord of the Flies’: civilization is savagery in disguise.

Topics about Themes in ‘Lord of the Flies’

One of the greatest approaches to find a topic for an essay about ‘Lord of the Flies’ is to explore the novel’s primary ideas. In the following list we have gathered topics connected to main themes that you can approach from various angles.

• The ways in which the characters’ actions and choices illustrate the theme of struggle between civilization and savagery in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The role of fear in the breakdown of societal order in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The corrupting influence of power in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The loss of innocence and descent into darkness in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• How does Golding use the conch shell as a symbol of civilization, order, and power in ‘Lord of the Flies’?
• The role of violence and aggression in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Exploring the concept of the innate inclination towards evil in humans as portrayed in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The importance of social norms and institutions in maintaining order in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The conflict between reason and instinct in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Investigation of the theme of leadership and traits of a successful leader in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The exploration of morality and ethics in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The symbolic significance of the island in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The theme of the loss of identity and individuality in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The theme of power struggle between Ralph and Jack. How does each character use different tactics to gain and maintain control over the group? What does this say about the nature of power and authority?
• The ways in which the parachute man represents the adult world that the boys have left behind, and how the boys’ attitudes towards him reflect their changing perceptions of authority.
• Compare and contrast the portrayal of human nature in ‘Lord of the Flies’ with other literary works that explore the theme of the inherent evil in mankind, such as Heart of Darkness or The Picture of Dorian Gray.
• The significance of the ending of Lord of the Flies and how it reinforces or challenges Golding’s main themes.

Character Analysis Essay Topics

Analyzing one or more characters is another excellent option for any literary essay. The characters in William Golding’s ‘Lord of the Flies’ are diverse, with distinct personalities and motivations. You can approach this by analyzing how one or more of the characters interact with each other and how their development shapes the story. To get more ideas, check the list below.

• The roles of Piggy and Roger in relation to the leaders. How do they contribute to the dynamic between Ralph and Jack? In what ways do they challenge or support their respective leaders?
• Analyzing the significance of Piggy’s role in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The evolution of Jack in ‘Lord of the Flies’: From schoolboy to savagery.
• Simon: A symbolic figure of purity in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Roger as a symbol of evil in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The Conch: A symbol of democracy in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The importance of Samneric in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• Analyzing the character of the naval officer in The ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The significance of the Littleuns in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The representation of women in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The role of adults in ‘Lord of the Flies’: A comparison of the boys and the naval officer.
• ‘Lord of the Flies’ as a World War II allegory: An analysis of the characters’ roles.
• The importance of Ralph’s leadership style in ‘Lord of the Flies.’

Watch ‘Lord of the Flies’ Character Analysis Video

Literature Analysis Topics

If you need to analyze ‘Lord of the Flies,’ you can find the connections between symbols, characters, and themes. Also, you can analyze literary elements or evaluate the writer’s ideas.

• An analysis of the symbolic elements in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and their significance to the plot and themes of the novel.
• The role of fear in the boys’ behavior and its significance in the novel.
• The theme of power and its effects on the characters in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The use of foreshadowing in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how it contributes to the story.
• The role of society and civilization in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how it relates to the characters’ behavior.
• How does the title of the novel ‘Lord of the Flies’ connect with and reflect the themes explored in the story?
• The portrayal of innocence in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how it is lost over the course of the story.
• The use of irony in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how it adds to the overall meaning of the story.
• The theme of savagery and its portrayal in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The role of leadership and its effects on the boys’ behavior in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The use of setting in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how it contributes to the story.
• The theme of human nature and its portrayal in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The role of the adult world and its absence in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The theme of isolation and its impact on the characters in ‘Lord of the Flies.’
• The use of allegory in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and its significance to the story.
• In what ways do the stereotypes used in ‘Lord of the Flies’ contribute to the novel’s overall message about human nature?
• How does Golding’s use of vivid language and striking imagery create a sense of realism in ‘Lord of the Flies’? How does it affect the reader’s understanding of the story?
• The symbolism of the conch, the fire on the mountaintop, and Piggy’s glasses. How do these objects represent different aspects of the boys’ society and their individual struggles?
• The role of societal norms and institutions in ‘Lord of the Flies’ and how they interact with the idea that evil is an inborn trait of mankind.

More Sources for Topics Ideas about ‘Lord of the Flies’

Watch a summary of the ‘Lord of the Flies’ from SparkNotes. Maybe you skipped something while reading.

A short video about the reasons why you should read ‘Lord of the Flies’ created by Ted-Ed.

Watch the full movie ‘Lord of the Flies’ to compare the film adaptation and the original novel. Has the director missed something? Has it influenced the overall perception of the book’s idea?

You can watch and connect the show series with ‘Lord of the Flies.’ Kid Nation was a television show that aired in 2007. A group of 40 children between the ages of 8 and 15 ventured out into a western ghost town to build their own civilization without any adult supervision.

Read an article about the symbolic significance of the characters from ‘Lord of the Flies.’ https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1082261.pdf

In a Nutshell

Witnessing the far-off heyday of the baby boom generation, ‘Lord of the Flies’ still startles the reader with its abominable scenery and its cutting truthfulness. No, there hasn’t been reported a case so far of well-bred boys turning on each other on some derelict island – the truthfulness of the novel instead lies in the distressing fact that the characters’ wicked mentality can also develop in moral, righteous individuals once they’re deprived of their comfort zone and locked in the abode of “the Beast.” And this is what makes the novel so close to real life.

‘Lord of the Flies’ won’t stop attracting both seasoned scholars and aspiring students to explore its mysterious and life-inspired world. With its complex philosophy and challenging themes, this novel has become a unique discovery for academics. Having good ‘Lord of the Flies’ essay topics at hand is what can help students take the first steps towards bringing their academic research to fruition!

How We Can Help You With Your ‘Lord of the Flies’ Essay

No matter how complex your college task is, you can always request, write my essay , at our service!  Whether you need help choosing a topic or writing a whole essay on Golding’s ‘Lord of the Flies,’ our writers are here to help. They have a tremendous amount of experience writing literary analyses, book reviews, and essays on a wide variety of books.

Our writers deeply understand the characters, plot, and themes Golding explored in his book. They will provide in-depth analysis and interpretation of the text, including thoroughly exploring the characters, setting, and themes. If you are having trouble writing an essay about ‘Lord of the Flies,’ don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Books — Lord of The Flies

Essays on Lord of The Flies

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Exploring Human Nature: a Study of "Lord of The Flies"

Man’s inherent evil in the lord of the flies by william golding, the issue of fear in the lord of the flies by william golding, greed, fear, and savagery in the lord of the flies by william golding, let us write you an essay from scratch.

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Depiction of Humans as Inherently Evil in The Lord of The Flies

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The Ralph's Leadership in The Lord of The Flies by William Golding

A situationist perspective on the psychology of evil, the water metaphor and its multiple interpretations in golding's novel, piggy's wisdom and humanity in lord of the flies, the frightening character of jack in lord of the flies, the savagery discourse and how it is pictured in lord of the flies, the analysis of the fictional novel "lord of the flies" by william golding, the defects of human nature in the lord of the flies, the link between symbolism and theme in lord of the flies.

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The Complexity of The Littluns in Lord of The Flies

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17 September 1954, William Golding

Allegorical novel

Ralph, Piggy, Jack, Simon, twins Sam and Eric

William Golding wrote "Lord of the Flies" as a response and counterpoint to R.M. Ballantyne's youth novel "The Coral Island" published in 1857. While Ballantyne's novel presented a romanticized portrayal of young boys stranded on an uninhabited island, depicting them as cooperative and civilized, Golding sought to challenge this idealistic view. Golding was dissatisfied with the notion that children, when left to their own devices, would naturally form a harmonious and idyllic society. He believed that human nature was inherently flawed and prone to darkness and savagery, even in the absence of adult supervision. "Lord of the Flies" served as a critique of the optimistic perspective presented in "The Coral Island," aiming to explore the potential for moral degradation and the loss of innocence in a primal environment.

Innocence, Friendship, Childhood, Fear, Anger, Allegories.

The story follows a group of British boys who find themselves stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes during a wartime evacuation. Without any adult supervision, the boys must establish their own society and survive until rescue arrives. Initially, the boys attempt to create order and maintain a sense of civilization by electing a leader, Ralph, and establishing rules. However, as time passes, the inherent savagery within some of the boys begins to emerge. Jack, the antagonist, gradually rebels against Ralph's leadership and forms his own tribe, indulging in hunting and violence. The conflict between Ralph and Jack symbolizes the battle between order and chaos, reason and instinct. As the boys succumb to their primal instincts, they gradually lose their sense of morality and descent into brutality. The novel explores themes of power, the loss of innocence, and the darkness that resides within all individuals. Ultimately, the arrival of a naval officer interrupts the boys' descent into savagery, revealing the horrors they have unleashed upon themselves.

"Lord of the Flies" by William Golding is set on a deserted tropical island in the midst of an unspecified global war. The location remains undisclosed, allowing the focus to be on the boys' struggle for survival rather than the specific geopolitical context. The island itself is described as a paradise, with its lush vegetation, beautiful beaches, and abundant resources. The island serves as an isolated microcosm where the boys' behavior unfolds without the influence of adult society. It becomes a blank canvas upon which the boys project their own fears, desires, and conflicts. The absence of adults and external authority creates a vacuum that allows the boys to establish their own social order and rules.

Symbolism (the conch shell, the signal fire, the beast, etc.), allegory (the boys' descent into savagery and the struggle for power), foreshadowing (the appearance of the sow's head), irony, imagery.

"Lord of the Flies" has had a significant influence on literature and popular culture since its publication. The novel's exploration of the darkness within human nature and its commentary on the fragility of civilization continue to resonate with readers worldwide. One notable influence of "Lord of the Flies" is its impact on dystopian and post-apocalyptic literature. The story's portrayal of a society descending into chaos and the exploration of power dynamics have influenced numerous works in this genre, such as Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games" and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale." The novel has also had a profound influence on the study of human behavior and psychology. It raises important questions about the nature of evil, the role of society in shaping individuals, and the impact of isolation on human relationships. These themes have sparked discussions and academic analyses across disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and philosophy. Furthermore, "Lord of the Flies" has become a cultural touchstone, frequently referenced in various forms of media, including films, television shows, and music. Its enduring popularity and ability to provoke introspection and critical thinking contribute to its ongoing influence in contemporary society.

One notable adaptation of "Lord of the Flies" is the 1963 film directed by Peter Brook, which brought the story to life on the big screen. The film received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of the boys' descent into savagery and its faithful adaptation of the novel's themes. The novel has also inspired theatrical productions, with stage adaptations being performed in different parts of the world. These adaptations provide a unique opportunity to experience the story in a live setting, further emphasizing the intensity and psychological depth of the narrative. Furthermore, the influence of "Lord of the Flies" can be seen in popular culture references, such as television shows, music, and literature. Its impact has sparked discussions and inspired creative works that explore similar themes of civilization, power, and human nature.

1. William Golding expressed dissatisfaction with his own work, describing his novel as dull and unrefined, a sentiment he later expressed in interviews and private conversations. 2. The impact of "Lord of the Flies" extends globally, as the book has been translated into more than 30 languages, allowing readers from diverse cultures to engage with its themes and messages. 3. Before finding a publishing home, "Lord of the Flies" faced considerable rejection, with publishers rejecting the manuscript a staggering 21 times. This highlights the initial challenges Golding faced in getting his work recognized. 4. Esteemed author Stephen King has publicly expressed his admiration for "Lord of the Flies," identifying it as one of his favorite books. King's endorsement speaks to the lasting influence and appeal of Golding's work. 5. "Lord of the Flies" has served as a source of inspiration for a range of musicians across different genres, including rap and metal. Bands like Iron Maiden have drawn inspiration from the novel, incorporating its themes and imagery into their music. 6. "Lord of the Flies" holds a significant place among the most banned books in the United States. Its exploration of dark themes and depiction of violence has led to challenges and attempts to restrict its availability in educational settings.

“Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man's heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy.” “The thing is - fear can't hurt you any more than a dream.” “Maybe there is a beast… maybe it's only us.” “What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages?” “We've got to have rules and obey them. After all, we're not savages. We're English, and the English are best at everything.”

The novel "Lord of the Flies" holds a significant place in literary discourse and continues to captivate readers across generations. Exploring timeless themes of human nature, morality, power, and civilization, it presents a compelling narrative that provokes introspection and critical analysis. Writing an essay about "Lord of the Flies" allows one to delve into the complexities of human behavior, the fragility of societal structures, and the potential for darkness within individuals. The novel's depiction of the descent into savagery and the loss of innocence offers a profound examination of the human condition. Moreover, "Lord of the Flies" serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to reflect on the consequences of unchecked power, societal breakdown, and the thin veneer of civilization. It prompts discussions on leadership, group dynamics, and the inherent conflicts that arise in challenging circumstances. By exploring the multifaceted layers of the story, an essay on "Lord of the Flies" allows students to sharpen their critical thinking skills, analyze complex themes, and engage in meaningful conversations about the darker aspects of human nature and society. It remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece of literature that invites examination and interpretation from various perspectives.

1. Bhalla, R., & Kowalski, C. (2017). What Lord of the Flies teaches us about primitive defence mechanisms and societal discontent. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/what-lord-of-the-flies-teaches-us-about-primitive-defence-mechanisms-and-societal-discontent/348B50D2158ABAC55B3E94B2DB6F20BA The British Journal of Psychiatry, 210(3), 189-189. 2. Tippetts, C. S. (1926). The End of the Par Collection Litigation. The American Economic Review, 16(4), 610–621. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/2) 3. Alnajm, A. L. (2015). The main themes in Lord of the Flies. International Journal of English and Literature, 6(6), 98-102. (https://academicjournals.org/journal/IJEL/article-full-text/011E73A53478) 4. Gilfillan, James (1963) "Review: "Lord of the Flies"," Calliope (1954-2001): Vol. 10 , Article 25. (https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/calliope/vol10/iss1/25) 5. Arnold Kruger (1999) Golding's Lord of the Flies, The Explicator, 57:3, 167-169. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00144949909596859?journalCode=vexp20) 6. Chougule, R. B., & Hanash, M. M. SCARCE LIFE BETWEEN LEADERSHIP AND NATURE OF SAVAGERY IN WILLIAM GOLDING'S LORD OF THE FLIES. (https://www.literaryendeavour.org/files/9x6upa7d5i55pltczctm/2020-01%2007%20SCARCE%20LIFE%20BETWEEN%20LEADERSHIP%20AND%20NATURE%20OF%20SAVAGERY%20IN%20WILLIAM%20GOLDING%E2%80%99S%20LORD%20OF%20THE%20FLIES%20%20-%20Dr.%20R.%20B.%20Chougule%20&%20Manee%20M.%20Hanash.pdf) 7. Kabra, S. (2021). Lord of the Flies: International Intellectual Property Laws. UC Davis J. Int'l L. & Pol'y, 28, 1. (https://heinonline.org/HOL/LandingPage?handle=hein.journals/ucdl28&div=4&id=&page=) 8. Burgess, J. (1963). Lord of the Flies by Peter Brook, Lewis Allen, Dana Hodgdon. (https://online.ucpress.edu/fq/article-abstract/17/2/31/38032/Review-Lord-of-the-Flies-by-Peter-Brook-Lewis)

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William Golding, an English novelist, playwright, and poet, is most renowned for his novel “Lord of the Flies,” a staggering piece of literature that explores the dark, underlying layers of human nature. Born on September 19, 1911, in Cornwall, England, Golding’s experiences as a teacher and a Royal Navy officer during World War II significantly influenced his perspectives on humanity’s inherent instincts, which profoundly shaped his writing. This essay delves into Golding’s life, his motivations for writing “Lord of the Flies,” and the impact of his work on contemporary literature.

The outbreak of World War II marked a turning point in Golding’s life. His service in the Royal Navy exposed him to the horrors and moral dilemmas of war, profoundly impacting his view of humanity. This experience was crucial in shaping the themes of his future novel, “Lord of the Flies.” The novel, published in 1954, emerged partly as a reaction to the optimistic view of human nature depicted in R.M. Ballantyne’s “The Coral Island.” Golding sought to challenge this idealism, presenting a more cynical view of humanity through the story of a group of boys stranded on an uninhabited island, whose attempts to govern themselves descend into barbarism and chaos.

“Lord of the Flies” is a complex exploration of the inherent evil within human nature. Golding uses the isolated setting and the boys’ gradual descent into savagery as a microcosm for broader societal issues. The novel questions the thin veneer of civilization and examines how quickly societal norms can disintegrate under stress and fear. The characters, particularly Ralph, Jack, and Piggy, represent different facets of human tendencies – rationality, savagery, and intellect. The novel’s enduring relevance lies in its unflinching portrayal of the dark aspects of human nature and its challenge to readers to introspect about their inherent instincts and societal values.

William Golding’s literary career continued with other notable works, including “The Inheritors,” “Pincher Martin,” and “Rites of Passage,” which won the Booker Prize in 1980. However, “Lord of the Flies” remains his most famous work, a testament to his deep understanding of human psychology and societal constructs. Golding was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1983, with the Swedish Academy recognizing his work as “illuminating the human condition in the world of today.”

In conclusion, William Golding’s authorship of “Lord of the Flies” marked a significant contribution to 20th-century literature. His exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, influenced by his experiences and worldview, has left an indelible mark on readers and scholars alike. Golding’s work continues to provoke thought and debate, attesting to the enduring power of literature to reflect and challenge societal norms and human behavior.

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Essays on Lord of The Flies

Writing a Lord of The Flies essay will allow you to revisit a shocking 1954 allegory novel “Lord of The Flies” by British author William Golding, which shook the society and minds of his contemporaries to the core. As you work on essays on Lord of The Flies you follow the story of kids, evacuated from war-infested England, whose plane crashed on the deserted island. Lord of The Flies essays explore these kids lives on the island and how they go about building a community. Essays try to capture children’s ideas of society. Through a story of vicious primitivistic survival, we learn that war cannot simply be left behind and resides within human nature. Look through Lord of The Flies essay samples we present to you as sources of great ideas – essay samples we picked will definitely help you along the way as you compose further essays on the subject.

The Novel "Lord of the Flies" The novel "Lord of the Flies" vividly portrays humanity's worst hand, the barbarism that threatens even the most cultured citizens. William Golding gives the reader a straightforward storyline, realistic photographs of girls, a precise history of character behavior, and exotic locations to demonstrate man's brutality....

The Role of Civilization in Eliminating Primitive Characteristics Many countries' economies have benefited from increased globalization. Civilization can be described as a collection of ideals that promote the well-being of a broad, diverse society and its people. The primary importance of civilization is the role it has played in eliminating primitive...

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In most communities and academic centers The idea of what is good and what is evil has vanished. Of course, academics and society have not ignored the ethical side of the issue; instead, they have only avoided commenting on what good morals mean. In most people's day-to-day lives, they prefer to...

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Development and Developmental Psychology Development is a continuous phase that begins with creation and concludes with death. Developmental psychology attempts to understand the human developmental process, behavioral changes, cognitive processes, and emotions (Mcleod, 2017). Influence of Social Pressure in Lord of the Flies There are many important stages in development that influence the...

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