| aimia_m_essaywrite_request | Write an essay |
| What topic | ) With reference to the ways Golding presents the killings on the island, show that the boys react to the killings in differing ways. |
| Which subject | Mathematics |
| What age group | Doesn't matter |
| How many pages | 1 |
| Add references | |
| Any other preferences |
In his novel "Lord of the Flies," William Golding explores the theme of civilization versus savagery through the story of a group of stranded boys on a deserted island. As the plot unfolds, the boys gradually descend into barbarism, and their actions become increasingly violent. This essay will examine the different ways in which the boys react to the killings on the island, as presented by Golding.
The first killing on the island is that of the sow. The boys pursue it as if it is a game, but when they finally catch it, they become caught up in their bloodlust. Golding describes the scene in graphic detail, highlighting the boys' savage behavior. However, not all the boys take part in the killing. Piggy, the logical and rational member of the group, is disgusted by their actions and refuses to participate. He sees the killing as barbaric and meaningless.
Simon is the first boy to recognize that the beast is not a physical creature, but rather the darkness that lies within themselves. Unfortunately, the others do not share his insight, and when they mistake him for the beast, they attack and kill him. Golding presents Simon's death as a tragic event, portraying it as the culmination of the boys' descent into savagery. Ralph and Piggy are horrified by what they have done, but they do not fully comprehend its significance.
Piggy's death is the final act of violence on the island, and it is the most shocking. The killing of Piggy represents the complete breakdown of the boys' social structure. Unlike Simon's death, which was accidental, Piggy's death was deliberate. Jack and his tribe, who have fully embraced their savage instincts, smash the conch and kill Piggy without hesitation. Ralph is horrified by the brutality of the act and flees into the forest.
In conclusion, Golding presents the killings on the island as a gradual descent into barbarism. The boys react to these killings in different ways, with each boy representing a different side of human nature. While some, like Piggy and Simon, try to maintain their rationality and humanity, others, like Jack, fully embrace their barbaric instincts. In the end, it is the boys' failure to recognize and control their inner darkness that leads to their downfall. This novel presents a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of unchecked savagery and the importance of maintaining civilization. As math students, it is essential to remember that logic and rationality are vital in solving problems, and to always strive to reject any base instincts holding us back.