The Significance of the “Beast” in Lord of the Flies: Exploring the Psychological and Symbolic Meaning of the Beast as a Manifestation of Fear
The "beast" in Lord of the Flies represents more than just a physical monster; it is a powerful symbol of fear, the unknown, and the darkness within each of the boys. Initially, the boys are terrified of the idea of a beast on the island, but as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that the true "beast" is not a literal creature, but the boys’ own internal fears and primal instincts.
The idea of the beast grows as a psychological manifestation of the boys' increasing anxiety, their fear of the unknown, and the power of their imaginations. The beast symbolizes the irrational fear that grows when there is no longer any rational order. As the boys become more frightened, they create a narrative around the beast that justifies their descent into savagery, leading them to commit acts of violence in the name of protecting themselves.
Golding uses the beast to illustrate how fear can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, leading to the breakdown of reason and morality. The fear of the beast is a reflection of the boys’ fear of themselves and their own capacity for evil, highlighting how fear can drive individuals to abandon their humanity in favor of violence and chaos.
6. The Portrayal of Power and Control in Lord of the Flies: A Comparative Study of How Power is Wielded by Different Characters in the Novel
Power and control are key themes in Lord of the Flies, and Golding examines how power is wielded by different characters in the novel. Ralph, as the elected leader, represents a form of leadership that relies on democratic principles and collective decision-making. However, his power is ultimately limited because it is based on reason, morality, and respect for rules, which become less effective as the boys' descent into savagery deepens.
In contrast, Jack represents the power of force, fear, and manipulation. His authority grows through intimidation, coercion, and promises of protection, offering the boys an escape from the responsibilities of civilization. Jack’s rise to power is fueled by his ability to manipulate the boys’ fears and desires, ultimately leading them to reject Ralph’s leadership in favor of Jack’s autocratic rule.
Golding contrasts these two forms of leadership to explore the dynamics of power and control. While Ralph’s leadership is based on reason and cooperation, Jack’s is founded on fear and violence. The novel illustrates how power can be exercised in different ways, but ultimately, it is the tyrannical control of Jack that triumphs, reflecting the ease with which chaos can overtake order.