Sam and Eric, often referred to together as "Samneric," are characters from William Golding's novel "Lord of the Flies." They represent a collective identity and serve as a reflection of the themes of civilization versus savagery and the loss of innocence. Here are their key characteristics and beliefs:
Characteristics:
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Loyalty: Sam and Eric are fiercely loyal to Ralph and each other. Their bond is strong, and they often act as a unit, emphasizing their close relationship.
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Innocence: They embody the innocence of childhood at the beginning of the story, but as events unfold, they become increasingly influenced by the chaos around them.
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Fear: They share a deep-seated fear of the unknown, particularly regarding the beast that the boys believe is on the island. This fear drives many of their actions and decisions.
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Conformity: Sam and Eric often go along with the decisions made by the group, showcasing a tendency to conform to peer pressure, especially as the group's descent into savagery intensifies.
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Reluctance to Harm: While they eventually participate in the group's darker activities, they are shown to be conflicted and hesitant about violence against others.
Beliefs:
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Hope for Rescue: Initially, Samneric hold on to the belief that they will be rescued from the island, which is reflected in their support for Ralph's leadership and the signal fire.
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Desire for Order: They believe in the need for rules and order. This is demonstrated by their support of Ralph, who represents civilization and structured society.
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Struggle Between Good and Evil: As the story progresses, Sam and Eric experience an internal struggle regarding the morality of their actions. They grapple with the conflict between their innate sense of right and the savagery that begins to dominate the group.
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Despair: Towards the end of the novel, their belief in the possibility of rescue diminishes, and a sense of despair takes over as they witness the complete breakdown of civilization among the boys.
Sam and Eric serve as pivotal characters in illustrating the themes of the novel, particularly the tension between civility and savagery, and the challenges of maintaining humanity in the face of chaos.