The Empathetic Character of Simon in Lord of The Flies

Lord of the Flies, written by William Golding, is a novel that explores the dark side of humanity through the experiences of a group of young boys stranded on a deserted island. Amidst the chaos and savagery that unfolds, one character stands out for his unwavering empathy: Simon. Throughout the novel, Simon consistently demonstrates empathy towards his fellow survivors, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the descent into madness. By examining key instances of Simon's empathy, it becomes clear that his character serves as a moral compass in an otherwise morally bankrupt world. This essay will delve into Simon's empathetic nature and its significance in the larger narrative of the novel.

One of the most powerful examples of Simon's empathy is his interaction with the littluns, the youngest boys on the island. When the littluns are frightened and in need of reassurance, Simon is always there to offer comfort and support. For instance, in Chapter Three, when one of the littluns has a nightmare and wakes up screaming, Simon is the first to rush to his aid. Golding describes Simon's response, stating, "Simon knelt down and the child sat up and looked gratefully at him" (Golding 57). This act of kindness and understanding showcases Simon's ability to connect with others on an emotional level, even in the face of their fear and vulnerability.

Furthermore, Simon's empathy extends beyond mere words of comfort. In Chapter Five, when the littluns are struggling to reach the fruit on the trees, Simon takes it upon himself to help them. He climbs the tree, gathers the fruit, and distributes it among the younger boys. Golding describes this scene, stating, "Simon found for them the fruit they could not reach, pulled off the choicest from up in the foliage, passed them back down to the endless, outstretched hands" (Golding 84). Simon's willingness to go above and beyond to help others demonstrates his selflessness and genuine concern for their well-being.

Moreover, Simon's empathetic nature is not limited to his interactions with the littluns. He also displays a deep understanding and compassion towards his fellow survivors, even when they do not reciprocate. In Chapter Six, when tensions among the boys are at their peak, Simon tries to alleviate the situation by suggesting a calm and rational approach. Golding depicts Simon's attempt, stating, "Simon spoke first, his voice was shaky. 'Maybe we ought to have a chief to decide things'" (Golding 111). Simon's proposal reveals his desire for unity and order, highlighting his ability to empathize with the group's need for structure and guidance.

Furthermore, Simon's empathy is exemplified in his relationship with Piggy, one of the most marginalized and ridiculed characters in the novel. Despite Piggy's social isolation, Simon takes the time to listen to him and offer support. In Chapter Four, when Piggy expresses his frustration with the other boys' lack of respect, Simon is there to console him. Golding describes the scene, stating, "Simon, sitting between the twins and Piggy, wiped his mouth and shoved his piece of meat over the rocks to Piggy, who grabbed it" (Golding 74). Simon's small act of kindness towards Piggy showcases his ability to recognize and empathize with the pain of others, even when they are often overlooked or dismissed.

In conclusion, Simon's character in Lord of the Flies serves as a beacon of empathy in a world consumed by savagery and chaos. Through his interactions with the littluns, his attempts to bring peace to the group, and his compassion towards Piggy, Simon consistently demonstrates his ability to understand and connect with others on a deep emotional level. In a novel that explores the darker aspects of human nature, Simon's empathy serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and kindness. By showcasing the significance of empathy, Golding prompts readers to reflect on their own capacity for empathy and its potential to shape their actions and relationships. Simon's character is a testament to the power of empathy in the face of adversity, and his presence in the novel leaves a lasting impact on both the characters and the readers.

Bibliography

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Faber and Faber, 1954.