The termination or ceasing of something is a key theme when analyzing William Golding’s Lord of the Flies. Specifically, the loss of order, rules, and ultimately, the initial attempts at civilized behavior represents a crucial turning point in the narrative. An example of this can be seen in the gradual disregard for the conch shell, which initially symbolized democratic processes and organized discussion amongst the boys.
The significance of this decline lies in its portrayal of human nature and the fragility of societal structures. Understanding the implications of this failing offers insights into Golding’s broader commentary on the inherent capacity for savagery that exists even within seemingly innocent individuals. The historical context, emerging after the horrors of World War II, reinforces the novels pessimistic view of humanity’s potential for self-destruction and descent into primal instincts. This understanding also benefits readers by providing a framework for analyzing similar themes in other works of literature and historical events.
