What happens to Simon in Lord of the Flies? In William Golding’s classic novel “Lord of the Flies,” one of the most significant and tragic events is the death of Simon. Simon is a unique character in the book, representing goodness, spirituality, and morality. Unfortunately, despite his best efforts, he becomes a victim of the boys’ descent into savagery and violent behavior.
What happens to Simon in Lord of the Flies? (Answer)
Simon’s death occurs in Chapter 9 of the novel, during a scene where the boys perform a wild, tribal dance around a bonfire. In the darkness, Simon crawls into the group and tries to tell them what he has seen, which is the true nature of the Beast they have been fearing. However, it is too late. The boys have lost all control, and thinking he is the Beast, they attack and kill Simon.
It is important to note that Simon’s death is neither deliberate nor intentional. The boys are caught up in the frenzy of the moment, and in their fear and confusion, they mistake Simon for the Beast. Even Ralph and Piggy, who represent reason and logic, are involved in the attack on Simon.
After Simon is killed, his body is carried out to sea by the tide. This symbolic moment represents the loss of innocence and the tragic consequences of the boys’ actions. Simon’s death marks a turning point in the novel, signaling the complete breakdown of the boys’ society and their descent into chaos and violence.
Why is Simon killed in Lord of the Flies?
Simon is killed in Lord of the Flies due to a combination of fear, ignorance, and frenzy among the boys on the island. As the story progresses, Simon becomes increasingly isolated from the group and begins to have encounters with a hallucinatory figure known as “the Lord of the Flies.” In a climactic scene, Simon stumbles upon a violent ritual being performed by the other boys and is mistaken for the beast. In their frenzied state and blinded by darkness, they brutally attack him, ultimately resulting in his tragic death. The killing of Simon serves as an allegory for humanity’s capacity for violence when driven by fear and ignorance.
Who is to blame for Simon’s death in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, the entire group of boys bears responsibility for Simon’s tragic death. Throughout the novel, the boys descend into savagery and abandon their civilized instincts, succumbing to fear and violence. During a frenzied ceremonial dance on the beach, Simon emerges from the forest where he had gone to discover the truth about the “beast.” Mistaken for the creature in their state of hysteria, the group brutally attacks him, ultimately leading to his untimely demise. The collective abandonment of reason and morality by all the boys highlights their shared culpability in this tragic event.
Is Simon evil in Lord of the Flies?
Simon is not evil in Lord of the Flies. While he may be perceived as strange and different from the other boys on the island, Simon embodies an innate goodness that is connected to nature and spirituality. He possesses a deep understanding of the true nature of humanity and recognizes the darkness lurking within each individual, including himself. Simon’s encounters with the “beast” represent his confrontation with this primal darkness. However, instead of succumbing to it as Jack does, he seeks to understand and transcend it. His tragic fate at the hands of the other boys further emphasizes his purity and innocence, as he becomes a sacrificial figure who ultimately pays the price for his unwavering goodness.
Where does Simon disappear to in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, Simon disappears to his hidden spot in the forest. This secluded place serves as his sanctuary, away from the chaos and savagery that unfolds among the boys stranded on the island. It is here that Simon often retreats to reflect and find solace within himself. However, it is also at this spot where he tragically encounters the “Lord of the Flies” – a decaying pig’s head on a stick – which symbolizes the inherent evil within mankind.
What does Simon’s death symbolize?
Simon’s death in Lord of the Flies symbolizes the death of goodness on the island. Throughout the novel, Simon is portrayed as a compassionate and empathetic character, embodying qualities of kindness and understanding. His brutal murder by the other boys represents the complete loss of morality and civilization in the group. With Simon’s demise, any remaining hope for decency and compassion dissipates, leaving only darkness and savagery to prevail. His death serves as a powerful reminder that without order and moral guidance, humanity can descend into chaos and depravity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Simon’s death in “Lord of the Flies” is a tragic event that highlights the destructive power of fear, violence, and mob mentality. Despite his efforts to be a voice of reason and morality, Simon becomes a victim of the boys’ savage behavior. His death is a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked aggression and the importance of maintaining a sense of humanity and compassion in even the direst circumstances.