Topic > Loss of innocence depicted in Lord of the Flies

IndexCharacter analysisDeterioration of orderSymbolism of the beastBibliographyWilliam Golding's novel, Lord of the Flies, explores the theme of loss of innocence. Set on a desert island, a group of kids find themselves isolated from civilization and the rules that govern society. As they struggle to survive, their primitive instincts and innate ferocity begin to emerge. This essay will analyze the various instances of loss of innocence in the novel and discuss their implications. Through examination of the characters, the deterioration of order, and the symbolism of the beast, it becomes apparent that Golding effectively portrays the loss of innocence as a result of the boys' descent into savagery. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Character AnalysisOne of the most prominent examples of loss of innocence in Lord of the Flies is seen through the character of Jack. Initially, Jack is presented as an altar boy with a sense of responsibility and order. However, as the novel progresses, his desire for power and domination overtakes his moral compass. This is evident when he becomes obsessed with hunting and killing pigs, eventually leading to Simon's murder. Jack's transformation from a civilized boy to a savage leader highlights the loss of innocence as a result of the boys' isolation. Furthermore, Roger's character also exemplifies the loss of innocence in the novel. At first Roger is portrayed as a shy and obedient boy. However, as the boys become increasingly accustomed to their wild environment, Roger's true nature emerges. He becomes increasingly cruel and sadistic, taking pleasure in causing pain to others. His transformation reflects the loss of innocence as the boys' primal instincts take over, leading to the collapse of order and morality. Deterioration of Order As the boys struggle to maintain order and civilization on the island, their efforts gradually deteriorate, leading to a loss of innocence. At first they try to establish rules and assign responsibilities, mirroring the structure of the society they left behind. However, as fear and desperation grow, they become more susceptible to the influence of their primitive instincts. The shell, which initially symbolizes order and democracy, loses its power and authority when the boys descend into chaos. The breakdown of order illustrates the loss of innocence as the boys succumb to their wild impulses. Furthermore, the gradual deterioration of the boys' appearance and behavior further indicates their loss of innocence. Initially, they maintain their civilized appearance and adhere to social norms. However, as time passes on the island, their physical appearance becomes more and more scruffy and their behavior becomes more and more brutal. Their transformation from innocent children to wild creatures emphasizes the loss of innocence as a result of their isolation and lack of social constraints. Symbolism of the Beast The symbolism of the beast in Lord of the Flies is a significant representation of the loss of innocence. At first, the boys' fear of the beast is abstract and they create a mythical creature in their minds. However, as their fear intensifies, the beast becomes a tangible threat, personifying their own inner ferocity. The beast represents the loss of innocence as the boys' primal instincts and ferocity consume them, blurring the line between civilized behavior and barbarism. The awareness that the..., 1954.