These questions focus on exploring the themes of civilization vs. savagery, the inherent nature of humanity, and the use of biblical allusions in William Golding's Lord of the Flies. Simon serves as a significant figure in this analysis, with many connections to Christ-like qualities and the idea of sacrifice. Let’s address the questions systematically:
1. What does the Lord of the Flies mean when he says he “is” the Beast? Explain. Is Simon scared? How do you know?
In the conversation between Simon and the Lord of the Flies, the "Beast" symbolizes the primal instincts and inherent evil within humanity. By stating that he "is" the Beast, the Lord of the Flies—represented by the pig's head—reveals that the true source of fear is not an external creature but rather the darkness within humans themselves. Simon experiences a mixture of fear and awe during this encounter; while he is frightened by the realization, he is also awakening to the truth about the boys' nature. He is not scared of the physical form of the Beast but rather of the existential revelation regarding humanity's innate evil.
2. “There was blackness within, a blackness that spread.” What is the significance of this description?
The description of "blackness within" represents the moral decay and loss of innocence that spreads among the boys on the island. This imagery illustrates their descent into savagery and highlights the theme that evil is not an external force but something that resides within all humans. The spreading blackness symbolizes the pervasive nature of this darkness as it infects the group, leading to violence and chaos.
Goal: Explain the ways in which Simon can be understood to be a Christ-like figure in the novel.
Simon embodies Christ-like qualities through his compassion, innate goodness, and tragic fate. He understands the true nature of the "Beast"—the darkness within humanity—and seeks to share this truth with the other boys, much like Jesus sought to impart wisdom and truth to those around Him. Simon's eventual martyrdom underscores his Christ-like status, as he sacrifices himself in an attempt to reveal the truth while facing the hostility and ignorance of the others.
Key Question from Matthew
3. How does Christ die? Who kills him? What is their motivation for killing him?
Christ dies through crucifixion, ordered by the Roman governor Pontius Pilate and motivated by the religious leaders' fear that Jesus threatens their authority and the social order of the time. They view His teachings and growing following as a challenge to their power, leading them to conspire against Him.
Key Questions from Chapter 8-9
4. “The beast was harmless and horrible and the news must reach the others as soon as possible.” Why does Simon want the others to know this?
Simon desires the others to understand that the Beast is not an external entity to be feared but a manifestation of the darkness within themselves. He believes that acknowledging this truth could prevent further violence and chaos, leading them back to civilization and reason. His intent reflects his role as a bearer of truth, crucial for the survival of their society.
5. What does Jack mean when he says that “[t]he conch doesn’t count at this end of the island” and what does this reveal about the idea of order/civilization vs. chaos/savagery?
Jack's statement indicates a rejection of the democratic principles and order symbolized by the conch shell. It marks a shift towards chaos and dictatorship, as Jack seeks to establish his own rule based on fear and power rather than cooperation and communication. This conflict highlights the broader theme in the novel of civilization's fragility when faced with humanity's primal instincts.
6. What are the other boys doing when Simon returns?
When Simon returns to the others, they are engaged in a frenzied and savage ritual dance, having descended into chaos and violence. This moment underscores the complete breakdown of civilization among the boys and their embrace of savagery.
In his description of Simon’s body, why does Golding include such a vivid description of the setting? How does this add to the development of the mood? The theme?
Golding’s vivid description of Simon’s body in the natural setting—specifically the beauty of the ocean and the light—juxtaposes the purity and innocence of Simon with the darkness associated with the boys' actions. This evokes a somber mood, emphasizing the tragedy of his death and the loss of innocence. It reinforces the theme of the conflict between civilization and savagery, illustrating how beauty and innocence can be destroyed by inherent evil.
How does Simon operate as a Christ-like character in the novel?
Simon operates as a Christ-like figure through his compassion, insights, and eventual sacrifice. He seeks to share the truth about the Beast and represents the moral conscience of the group. His death echoes the theme of martyrdom; like Christ, he faces rejection and violence from those he tries to help.
How does Simon’s death serve to develop Golding’s message about humanity? Explain, using evidence from the chapter.
Simon’s death signifies the triumph of savagery over civility, illustrating Golding's message that humanity has an inherent propensity for evil. After Simon is killed in a frenzy of fear and violence, it symbolizes the complete breakdown of social order and the loss of innocence among the boys. This event underscores Golding's assertion that without societal structures to maintain morality, humanity's darker impulses will prevail. The boys’ immediate remorse and horror after recognizing what they have done to Simon serve as a poignant reminder of their lost innocence and the tragic consequences of their descent into savagery.
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