Simon's role in the development of the novel's themes is necessary, as shown through his actions, words, and symbolism throughout Lord of the Flies. One of the main themes of the novel is the inherent evil of human nature. The boys on the island quickly devolve into savagery and violence, driven by their base instincts and unchecked desires. Despite this, Simon maintains his compassion and empathy, offering hope that goodness can still exist in the world. He shows selflessness for the boys, even those who are weak or mistreated, such as Piggy. When he retrieves Piggy's glasses after they are broken by Jack, Simon shows his willingness to put himself in danger to help another person. This act of kindness is a stark contrast to the cruelty and …show more content…
As the boys on the island descend into barbarism, Simon remains a beacon of reason and morality. He recognizes that the only way for the boys to survive is to work together and maintain a sense of order and responsibility. When Jack and his hunters neglect the signal fire and let it go out, Simon is one of the boys who rushes to relight it. He understands that the fire is their only hope for rescue, and he is willing to put in the effort to keep it going. Simon represents the best of civilization, even in the midst of chaos and anarchy. Simon's words also shape the novel's themes. He encourages others to think logically and critically rather than giving in to their fears when the boys become increasingly fearful and superstitious about the existence of the beast on the island. Simon proposes, "What I mean is... maybe it's only us.", This reinforces Simon's role as a voice of reason and wisdom in the …show more content…
Simon remains in touch with his own humanity and recognizes the inherent evil that lies within each person. Through Simon's actions and thoughts, Golding emphasizes the primal nature of human beings and their susceptibility to abandon moral behavior in the absence of societal norms. The other boys abandon moral behavior as soon as civilization is no longer there to impose it upon them. They are not innately moral; rather, the adult world—the threat of punishment—has conditioned them to act morally. To an extent, even the seemingly civilized Ralph and Piggy are products of social conditioning, as we see when they participate in the hunt-dance. The pig hunt dance is a symbol of the boys' growing depravity, susceptibility to peer pressure, and herd instinct as they abandon their moral values and give in to their primal