The Significance of Simon's Death in Lord of The Flies

Lord of the Flies, written by William Golding, is a classic novel that explores the dark side of human nature. Throughout the story, various characters symbolize different aspects of society, and their actions and interactions reveal the fragility of civilization. One of the most significant moments in the novel is the death of Simon, a character who represents innocence and spiritual insight. Simon's death has deep symbolic meaning, highlighting the loss of humanity and morality in the face of fear and savagery. This essay will explore the various symbols associated with Simon's death and analyze their implications on the overall theme of the novel.

The Beast Within

Simon's death symbolizes the triumph of the beast within each individual. From the beginning of the novel, the boys' fear of a mythical beast grows, leading them to descend into savagery. The beast, however, is not an external threat but a manifestation of the darkness that resides within them. Simon, in contrast, is the only character who fully understands this truth. He discovers that the real beast is not an external creature, but rather the innate evil present in every human being. His death symbolizes the suppression of this understanding, as the boys succumb to their primal instincts and lose their connection to morality.

One instance where Simon's death symbolizes the triumph of the beast within is when the boys mistake him for the beast during a chaotic dance. As they chant, "Kill the beast! Cut his throat! Spill his blood!" (Golding 152), they become consumed by their fear and frenzy. In their distorted perception, they see Simon, the embodiment of innocence and spiritual insight, as the very thing they dread. This tragic event highlights the boys' descent into savagery and their inability to recognize the true nature of the beast.

The Loss of Innocence

In addition to representing the triumph of the beast within, Simon's death also symbolizes the loss of innocence. Throughout the novel, Simon is portrayed as a pure and kind-hearted character who possesses an innate goodness. He is the only one who truly understands the beauty and fragility of the natural world on the island. His death, therefore, signifies the destruction of innocence and the corruption of purity.

One powerful symbol associated with Simon's death is his encounter with the "Lord of the Flies," a decaying pig's head on a stick. During this hallucination, the pig's head speaks to Simon, and its words reveal the darkness lurking within the boys. The head tells Simon, "Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill!... You knew, didn't you? I'm part of you?" (Golding 143). This conversation highlights the boys' inability to escape their own inner evil, as well as Simon's knowledge of this truth. His death soon after this encounter signifies the loss of his innocence and purity, as he becomes a victim of the darkness he tried to expose.

Spiritual Awakening and Sacrifice

Simon's death also symbolizes a spiritual awakening and sacrifice. Throughout the novel, Simon is depicted as a Christ-like figure who possesses profound spiritual insight. His connection to nature and his understanding of the true nature of the beast sets him apart from the other boys. The circumstances surrounding his death, therefore, parallel the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and convey a message of sacrifice for the greater good.

One significant symbol associated with Simon's death is the setting in which it occurs. Simon dies in a secluded, serene spot in the jungle, surrounded by the beauty of nature. This location represents the sacred and pure, contrasting with the chaos and violence that consume the rest of the island. His death in this peaceful setting suggests that his sacrifice is necessary for the preservation of goodness and morality, even in the face of overwhelming darkness.

Conclusion

The death of Simon in Lord of the Flies holds deep symbolic meaning, representing the triumph of the beast within, the loss of innocence, and a spiritual awakening and sacrifice. Simon's character serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of civilization and the potential for evil that exists within each individual. His death highlights the destructive nature of fear and savagery and emphasizes the importance of maintaining morality and humanity in the face of adversity. Through the symbolism surrounding Simon's death, William Golding effectively conveys a profound message about the inherent darkness and potential for destruction within human nature.

References

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