Themes in Lord of the Flies

Themes in Lord of the Flies

Although Lord of the Flies may appear to be just a story about some wild, immoral boys on an island, it is also about the nature of humanity, the weaknesses of government, the inevitability of violence, and the essential importance of morality.

Through an analysis of the themes in Lord of the Flies, the reader can determine Golding’s philosophical views of war, humanity, government, and morality. Through this novel, Golding gives social commentary on World War II

List of major and minor themes in Lord of the Flies:

• • Civilization v. savagery

  • Humans are inherently violent

  • We need civilization, civility or morality, to control our savage side

  • Nations revert to war for the same reasons that humans regress to violence

  • War is not a civilized solution to problems; war is violent and savage

  • Society is hypocritical when it tells boys not to fight, but conducts war itself.

  • Nevertheless, sometimes a person or a nation must fight in order to protect civilization, morality, and what is right. Still, we must not become confused and think that this war is noble.

  • Fear and anger are the most powerful emotions and both lead to violence.

  • Good leaders serve their nation, and do not lead because of a desire of power

  • Democracies are better than dictatorships

  • Fear, anger, power, and jealousy cause fights and wars