What does Simon see before he dies? In William Golding’s classic novel “Lord of the Flies”, Simon is a character who possesses a unique understanding of the true nature of the beast that the boys fear. This understanding ultimately leads to his demise as he attempts to bring the truth to his peers. But before Simon meets his tragic end, he sees something that changes everything.
What does Simon see before he dies? (Answer)
After fleeing from the chaotic dance of the boys, Simon crawls up the hill toward the top. As he reaches the top, he sees the dead pilot with his flapping parachute. In the failing light, Simon observes the parachute rise and fall with the wind. It is at this moment that Simon has a revelation. He realizes the boys have mistaken this harmless object for the deadly beast that has plunged their entire group into chaos.
This realization in Chapter 9 is a turning point in the novel. Simon’s understanding of the true nature of the beast is now crystal clear. He knows the beast is not a physical entity but a manifestation of the boys’ fears and anxieties. He attempts to convey this truth to his peers, but tragically his efforts are in vain.
Simon’s death is a crucial moment in the novel. It highlights the destructive power of fear and the dangers of mob mentality. Simon’s death is a reminder that truth and reason can often fall victim to the destructive forces of chaos and irrationality.
How is Simon’s death foreshadowed?
Simon’s death is foreshadowed through the symbolism of the flies. Despite their presence, Simon ignores them and makes his way down the mountain. The flies can be seen as representing the spirit of the beast, and they surround both the dead parachutist and the Lord of the Flies, which Simon encounters on the mountain. Additionally, before deciding to share his news about the true identity of the beast with the other boys, flies swarm around Simon’s face, almost serving as a warning of his impending death.
What does Simon’s death show?
Simon’s death in Lord of the Flies exemplifies the power of evil within the human soul. As an innocent and compassionate character, Simon represents goodness and purity on the island. His brutal murder by the other boys, who mistake him for the “beast,” demonstrates how easily fear and darkness can consume even the noblest individuals. Simon’s death serves as a chilling reminder that when faced with extreme circumstances, humanity is susceptible to descending into savagery and losing touch with their moral compass.
How does Simon die in Lord of the Flies?
Simon dies in Lord of the Flies when the boys, caught up in a frenzy and mistaking him for the beast, fall on him violently and kill him.
What does Simon’s death symbolize?
Simon’s death in Lord of the Flies symbolizes the death of goodness on the island. As a character, Simon represents purity, compassion, and an innate moral sense. His murder by the other boys while he tries to share the truth about the “beast” reveals their descent into savagery and their rejection of reason and empathy. Simon’s death signifies the loss of innocence and the triumph of darkness over light, highlighting how even within seemingly civilized individuals, humanity’s capacity for evil can prevail when fear and chaos take hold.
What happens to the bodies of Simon and the parachutist?
During the storm, the bodies of Simon and the parachutist are both sucked out into the sea, never to be seen again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what Simon sees before he dies is a powerful symbol of the truth he has sought throughout the novel. His realization that the boys have mistaken the dead parachute man for the deadly beast is a turning point in the narrative. It is a tragic reminder of the destructive power of fear and the importance of reason and truth in the face of chaos and irrationality.