What Is The Loss Of Innocence In Lord Of The Flies

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Imagine being on an isolated island that becomes a haunting canvas where the innocence of youth is shattered, revealing the beast that lies beneath civilization. William Golding's book Lord of the Flies is a novel that follows a group of boys that get stranded on an isolated island and have to decide on a chief who takes on a leadership position. However, once those rules collapse, the group of boys descend into chaos and savagery. Characters such as Ralph, Piggy, and Jack are a vessel in which the author explores these dark themes that undercut human nature. In this novel, the profound theme of growing up and loss of innocence, particularly as it pertains to character development, is explored. The novel vividly illustrates how the struggle …show more content…

For instance, early in the story, when they found each other once, they were on the island, Ralph states, "I climbed a rock... and I think this is an island," while Piggy anxiously remarks, "They're all dead... and this is an island. Nobody don't know we're here... We may stay here till we die" (Golding, pg 15). This quote demonstrates their initial realization and preparation for the harsh struggles of survival that lie ahead. This moment marks the beginning of their journey, highlighting their need to adapt and endure the upcoming hardships of survival. The next point is the emotional and psychological struggles the characters endure. As the story progresses, the boys experience profound internal …show more content…

In conclusion, this novel vividly portrays how the characters' struggle with survival shapes their resilience and determination, as shown through their initial realization of the challenges ahead and the profound emotional and psychological conflicts they endure throughout their challenging journey on the island. The harsh realities of survival on the island quickly strip away the boys' civilized behaviors, exposing their primal instincts and altering their identities. Introducing this theme, the novel presents quotes that emphasize the erosion of their societal norms and descent into savagery. The chilling voice of the Lord of the Flies taunts the boys with the revelation that the beast they fear is within themselves, questioning their belief in the ability to hunt and kill it (Golding, pg 176). This moment marks a pivotal shift as the boys confront the darker aspects of their nature, abandoning rationality for a frenzied hunt, chanting "Kill the beast! Cut his throat. Spill his blood. Golding, p 186 (Golding, p

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