What Does Simon Symbolize In Lord Of The Flies

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The novel, Lord of the Flies, was sparked after the profound consequences that World War II had on Golding’s view of humanity. After the victory of Britain against Germany’s Nazis, the notion of British people being innately good was created. However, Golding did not only see the surface of the victory but also the underlying evil present in the actions Britain made to be liberated from the Nazi invasion. In particular, the mass murders of innocent civilians, and propaganda manipulation done by the British was not so civilized in comparison to the Nazis either. As a result, Golding’s sole purpose to writing this novel was to demolish this misconception of Britain and humanity. Through its contrasting characters, Golding’s Lord of the Flies signifies the different behaviours of mankind, which civilization is either lost and turned to savagery, or remains steadfast under extreme circumstances. Simon illustrates the pure and good-hearted individuals of mankind. Jack symbolizes the innate savagery of our society. Ralph personifies the grey area between civilization and savagery. First of all, …show more content…

As was previously stated, Simon is a representation of natural goodness through his prophetic mindset, need to help others and the lack of drive to hunt down the beast. Additionally, Jack embodies the underlying savage behaviour within everyone from his obsession to hunt and overthrown Ralph, and child-like beliefs. Furthermore, Ralph expresses the middleman of civilization and savagery as he constantly tries to find balance within the group, and is on the side of order and democracy but however, still enjoys hunting. As a final point, human behaviour is extremely complex and cannot be pinpointed and specified. What is seen on the surface is not the only detail of a person but only a small fraction of their true personality and