What is the moral of Lord of the Flies? (#1 Answer)

What is the moral of Lord of the Flies

What is the moral of Lord of the Flies? In 1983, the book’s author, William Golding, offered insight into the novel’s theme and moral, stating that the story’s purpose is to expose how society’s defects stem from the flaws inherent in human nature. Golding’s assertion provides a thought-provoking basis for exploring the novel’s moral and the lessons it offers about the nature of humanity and society. Ultimately, Golding suggests that a society’s structure must depend on the ethical nature of the individual rather than any political system, however logical or respectable it may seem. In this article, we will delve into the moral of Lord of the Flies and consider its implications for our understanding of society and ourselves.

What is the moral of Lord of the Flies? (Answer)

William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies is about a group of British boys stranded on an uninhabited island who must survive without adult supervision. The novel is a commentary on human nature, society, and the relationship between the two. Golding believed that the defects of society result from the defects of human nature. The moral of the story is that the shape of a society depends on the ethical nature of the individual and not on any political system.

The novel explores the theme of the inherent evil in human nature. The boys are initially excited about their newfound freedom and the absence of adult supervision. However, as time passes, they begin to exhibit the darker side of human nature. They form their own social hierarchy and become more savage and violent as they struggle for power and control. The boys’ descent into savagery highlights the idea that civilization is only a thin veneer that can be easily stripped away.

The novel also critiques the idea that a political system can solve all of society’s problems. The boys try to establish their own system of governance, but it quickly descends into chaos and violence. The boys’ attempts at democracy and a fair distribution of resources are quickly overshadowed by the boys’ desire for power and control. The novel suggests that no political system, no matter how logical or respectable, can compensate for the ethical deficiencies of the individuals within it.

The moral of the story is that the shape of a society depends on the ethical nature of the individual. The boys on the island could not establish a functional society because they lacked a sense of morality and ethics. The novel suggests that society can only function properly if its members are willing to behave ethically and morally. The story warns against the idea that a political system can solve all of society’s problems. Instead, it suggests that individuals must take responsibility for their actions and behave ethically to create a functioning and sustainable society.

What are the 3 main themes in Lord of the Flies?

The three main themes in Lord of the Flies are civilization vs. savagery, the impact of humankind on nature, and the nature of humanity. The book explores how a group of boys stranded on an island without adult supervision gradually descends into savagery, demonstrating the conflict between civilization and primal instincts. The story also touches upon the negative impact that humans can have on nature as the boys destroy much of their environment during their stay on the island. Finally, Lord of the Flies portrays different views concerning human nature; some characters believe humans are inherently good, while others believe that people are naturally prone to violence and cruelty.

What does Lord of the Flies teach us about human nature?

Lord of the Flies suggests that human nature is inherently flawed and prone to savagery and violence. The rules, norms, and laws of civilization often suppress these negative aspects of human nature. When these structures are removed or broken down, as on the deserted island in the novel, individuals turn to their primal instincts and desires for power and control. The book suggests that even children and adolescents can be cruel, aggressive, and brutal when left to their own devices.

However, Lord of the Flies also hints at a more hopeful view of human nature. Ralph represents decency, democracy, and cooperation; his efforts to establish order on the island suggest that humans have an inherent desire for community and collective action. Moreover, Ralph’s repeated appeals to reason suggest that humans possess a capacity for rationality even in moments of crisis.

Thus, Lord of the Flies presents a complex view of human nature that acknowledges the potential for both good and evil within each person but ultimately foregrounds humanity’s dark side.

What does Lord of the Flies symbolize in simple terms?

In simple terms, the Lord of the Flies symbolizes the inherent evil and savagery that exists within all human beings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lord of the Flies is a cautionary tale about the darker side of human nature and the relationship between society and the individual. Golding believed that the defects of society result from the defects of human nature. The story’s moral is that the shape of a society depends on the ethical nature of the individual and not on any political system. The novel warns against the idea that a political system can solve all of society’s problems and suggests that individuals must take responsibility for their actions to create a functioning and sustainable society.

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