Comparing Jane Eyre And Lord Of The Flies, By William Golding

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Many novels are written for their specific time, dealing with the issues of society and politics relevant to the period of publication. This is thought to affect only the people of that time. However, many books continue to affect individuals of later times, in a sense, standing the test of time. Meaning, the novels that stand the test of time contain subjects that still have meanings and values seen in the politics and society of the later time. Two books that accomplish this and stand the test of time are Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre and William Golding’s Lord of the Flies. Jane Eyre stands the test of time by focusing on the feelings of women, specifically Jane’s passion, which were suppressed in past societies but are prominent in the …show more content…

Since Lord of the Flies was published soon after the end of World War II, Golding most likely drew influence from the regimes and revolutions pertaining to that horrible time. Resulting from his input on politics, “Many contemporary readers and critics saw the work as an explanation for the rise of fascism and communism in the world”(Lansford 451). The fact that “contemporary” critics believe this shows how Golding’s observations are apposite in modern times, still teaching and influencing present scholars. Furthermore, the possible origin of the fascist and communist governments alluded to in Lord of the Flies is explained in this quote, “Not only are the boys totally disorganized and more fearful than before, but they seek to forget their fears in savage behavior. The leadership of Ralph, which he sought to strengthen, has deteriorated”(Golding, Works of William Golding: Lord Of The Flies: Chapters 1 - 5). This quote shares Golding’s opinion of the fear-based deterioration of society, characterized in the book by Ralph and Jack’s island factions. Additionally, “When Ralph shouts at Jack, ‘Which is better, laws and rescue, or hunting and breaking things up?’ he summarizes the conflicts in the book between the ideals of modern society and the impulses of primitive man... He and Jack have become complete savages”(Golding, Works of William Golding: Lord Of The Flies: Chapters 6-12). This quote illuminates the dichotomy of the island, which, parallel to society today, provides the means for war and uprising. Overall, the political division in the novel supports the novel’s ability to stand the test of time till now and for years to

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