The Role and Significance of Littluns in Lord of The Flies

William Golding's novel Lord of the Flies is a literary masterpiece that delves into the psyche of human beings and the horrors of society. One of the significant features of this novel is the presence of the littluns, who are the young boys stranded on the island with the older boys. The littluns play an essential role in the novel, as they represent the innocence and vulnerability of children in a world that is hostile and brutal. This essay will explore the role and significance of the littluns in Lord of the Flies, how they are treated, and how their presence shapes the events of the novel.

Role of the Littluns

To begin with, the littluns are an essential component of the Lord of the Flies, as they represent the innocence and vulnerability of children. The littluns are the younger boys on the island, who are not yet old enough to be part of the older boys' group. They are seen as weak and dependent, especially in contrast to the older boys, who are tasked with protecting them. The characterization of the littluns is critical in the novel, as it indicates the fragility of civilization and the dangers that arise when societal norms and values are disregarded. The littluns are the most innocent and vulnerable members of the children society, and their presence highlights the moral decay and brutality that exists in the older children.

Treatment of the Littluns

Furthermore, despite being the weaker members of the group, the littluns are subjected to brutality and violence by the older boys. Throughout the novel, the littluns suffer various abuses, including physical abuse, verbal abuse, and neglect. The older boys consider the littluns as a nuisance and take advantage of their vulnerability. For example, in chapter 4, when a littlun tells the older boys that he saw a beast, Jack slaps him. Similarly, in chapter 9, Piggy highlights the need to care for the littluns, as they are vulnerable, but he is ignored. Such behavior illustrates how societal norms are breaking down, and the stronger members of society prey on the weaker ones. Therefore, the treatment of the littluns is significant in the novel, as it reflects how society treats its most vulnerable members.

Impact of the Littluns

Moreover, the littluns' presence in the book shapes the events of the novel. Their vulnerability and innocence are a stark reminder of the society that once existed on the island. The older boys become increasingly violent and savage, and the littluns are caught up in the chaos. As the novel progresses, the littluns become more fearful and disoriented, and their behavior mirrors that of the older boys. They begin to act out of fear and self-preservation, and some even join the older boys in their violent behavior. Furthermore, the littluns' presence impacts the characters of the older boys in the novel. Some boys, such as Ralph and Piggy, recognize the need to care for the littluns, while others, such as Jack, take advantage of their innocence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the littluns in Lord of the Flies are an essential component of the novel. They represent the innocence and vulnerability of children and highlight the fragility of society and the dangers of moral decay. The treatment of the littluns by the older boys reflects how society treats its most vulnerable members, while their presence shapes the events of the novel. The littluns are a stark reminder of the society that once existed on the island, and their behavior illustrates the impact of societal norms and values on individual behavior. Overall, the littluns' role and significance in Lord of the Flies are critical in understanding the novel's themes and message.