The Journey of Death in Lord of The Flies

In the classic novel Lord of the Flies, William Golding takes readers on a haunting journey that explores the depths of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power. Throughout the book, death becomes a recurring theme, symbolizing the loss of civilization and the descent into savagery. One pivotal moment in the story is the death of Simon, a character whose innocence and connection to nature make him an outcast among the other boys. By examining how Simon dies in Lord of the Flies, we can gain insight into the larger themes of the novel and the destructive nature of human behavior.

The Death of Simon

Simon's death is a turning point in the story, highlighting the complete breakdown of order and morality within the group of boys. Unlike the other characters, Simon possesses a deep understanding of the island's true nature and the darkness that resides within each individual. His death serves as a tragic reminder of the destructive power of fear and mob mentality.

One of the key scenes leading up to Simon's death occurs during a frenzied dance around a bonfire. The boys, caught up in their primal instincts, mistake Simon for the fearsome "beast" they believe is lurking on the island. In their frenzy, they brutally beat him, ultimately leading to his demise. This scene demonstrates the loss of rationality and the triumph of violence over reason, as well as the group's unwillingness to confront the truth.

The Symbolism of Simon's Death

Simon's death holds significant symbolic meaning within the novel. As a character who represents innocence and spirituality, his murder reflects the rejection of these qualities by the other boys. It also symbolizes the loss of hope for redemption and the triumph of evil over good.

The circumstances surrounding Simon's death bear similarities to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Both characters are isolated and misunderstood, and both face a violent death at the hands of a fearful mob. Simon's death, like Christ's, can be seen as a sacrifice to expose the darkness within humanity and to highlight the consequences of unchecked power.

The Implications of Simon's Death

Simon's death has far-reaching implications within the novel. It marks the point of no return for the boys, as they fully embrace their savage instincts and abandon any semblance of civilization. With Simon's murder, the group loses its moral compass and descends into chaos.

Furthermore, Simon's death serves as a wake-up call for the remaining characters, particularly Ralph and Piggy. It forces them to confront the true nature of the other boys and the dire consequences of their actions. The loss of Simon, the only character who truly understood the island's secrets, leaves the group vulnerable and doomed to a tragic fate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the death of Simon in Lord of the Flies is a critical moment in the novel that encapsulates the journey towards savagery and the loss of civilization. It symbolizes the rejection of innocence and spirituality, as well as the triumph of fear and violence over reason. Simon's death serves as a turning point in the story, leading to the complete breakdown of order and morality among the boys. It highlights the destructive power of unchecked power and the consequences of abandoning one's moral compass. Through examining how Simon dies in Lord of the Flies, we gain a deeper understanding of the larger themes and implications of the novel.

Bibliography

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