the beast from lord of the flies

3 min read 07-10-2024

Introduction

In William Golding's seminal novel Lord of the Flies, the titular "beast" symbolizes much more than a mere creature lurking in the woods. It embodies the primal instincts and innate fears that dwell within every human being. In this article, we will explore the nature of the beast, its significance in the novel, and its broader implications on society and human psychology.

What is the "Beast"?

The "beast" initially appears as a tangible entity feared by the boys stranded on the island. It evolves from a mere imagined monster into a complex representation of their inner fears and savagery.

Q: What does the beast represent in Lord of the Flies?

A: The beast represents the primal instincts and the inherent darkness within every human being.

Golding uses the beast to illustrate how civilization can quickly erode, exposing the raw, instinctive nature of humanity. The boys' fear of the beast grows as their societal structure falls apart, mirroring the breakdown of order and the rise of chaos.

The Evolution of the Beast

At first, the boys perceive the beast as a physical creature, possibly the snake-like figure described by the littluns. However, as the narrative progresses, the beast morphs into something more abstract, becoming a symbol of the boys' internal struggles and moral dilemmas.

Q: How does the perception of the beast change throughout the story?

A: Initially seen as a physical creature, the beast evolves to symbolize the fear and savagery within the boys themselves.

This evolution is poignantly captured in Simon's realization that "the beast is us." This moment highlights that the true threat lies not in an external monster but within the boys themselves, reflecting the idea that evil is an intrinsic part of humanity.

The Psychological Implications

The fear of the beast serves as a catalyst for the boys' descent into savagery. As they become more consumed by their fears, their moral compass deteriorates, leading to acts of brutality and violence.

Practical Example: The Killing of Simon

The tragic death of Simon at the hands of the other boys, who mistake him for the beast, illustrates how fear can distort perception and lead to violent actions. In this moment, the boys are not just killing Simon; they are enacting the violence and chaos that the beast represents.

Societal Reflections and Relevance

The concept of the beast speaks volumes about the nature of human society. In today's context, we can relate to the idea of the beast as the fears and prejudices that manifest in various forms, whether through racism, violence, or social conflict.

Q: How does the beast relate to contemporary society?

A: The beast symbolizes the underlying fears and darkness in society, manifesting in various forms of violence and prejudice.

As civilization struggles with issues like terrorism, political unrest, and social inequality, the fear of the "beast" resurfaces, reminding us that the darkness within humans can lead to catastrophic outcomes if left unchecked.

Conclusion

The beast in Lord of the Flies serves as a profound symbol of the darkness within humanity. Golding’s exploration of fear and savagery challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truth that the greatest monsters often lie within ourselves. By understanding the beast, we gain insight into not only the novel but also our own lives and societies.

As we reflect on the themes of Lord of the Flies, it’s crucial to recognize and confront our own "beasts" to foster a more understanding and humane society. The journey from civilization to savagery is not just the boys' experience but a potential reality for all humanity.

References:

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

Keywords: Lord of the Flies, beast, William Golding, symbolism, human nature, savagery, fear, literature analysis, contemporary relevance.