A bastion, in its literal sense, is a fortified structure projecting outward from the main enclosure of a castle or fort, designed to offer greater defensive capability. Figuratively, it represents a stronghold or a place of strong defense or resistance. In the context of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies, a particular location on the island comes to symbolize this protective function for Ralph and his group as they attempt to maintain order and civilization. This location is not a physical fortress, but rather a space where they strive to uphold their values and resist the descent into savagery.
The significance of this symbolic stronghold lies in its embodiment of hope and the preservation of societal norms amidst chaos. It highlights the inherent human struggle between reason and instinct, order and anarchy. Historically, the concept of a defensive bulwark against external threats is deeply rooted in human societies, reflecting the constant need for security and the preservation of cherished values. In Lord of the Flies, the attempt to establish and maintain this safeguard against primal urges underscores the fragility of civilization and the ever-present threat of its collapse.
