Table of ContentsThe Beast WithinThe Loss of InnocenceSpiritual Awakening and SacrificeConclusionReferencesLord of the Flies, written by William Golding, is a classic novel that explores the dark side of human nature. Throughout the story, various characters symbolize different aspects of society, and their actions and interactions reveal the fragility of civilization. One of the novel's most striking moments is the death of Simon, a character who represents innocence and spiritual insight. Simon's death has deep symbolic meaning, highlighting the loss of humanity and morality in the face of fear and savagery. This essay will explore the various symbols associated with Simon's death and analyze their implications on the overall theme of the novel. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Beast Within Simon's death symbolizes the triumph of each individual's inner beast. From the beginning of the novel, the boys' fear of a mythical beast grows, leading them to descend into savagery. The beast, however, is not an external threat but a manifestation of the darkness that resides within it. Simon, on the other hand, is the only character who fully understands this truth. He discovers that the true beast is not an external creature, but rather the innate evil present in every human being. His death symbolizes the removal of this understanding, as the boys succumb to their primal instincts and lose their connection to morality. One example where Simon's death symbolizes the triumph of the inner beast is when the boys mistake him for the beast during a chaotic dance. As they chant: "Kill the beast! Cut its throat! Shed its blood!" (Golding 152), they are consumed by their fear and frenzy. In their distorted perception, they see Simon, the embodiment of innocence and spiritual insight, as what they fear. This tragic event highlights the boys' descent into savagery and their inability to recognize the true nature of the beast. The Loss of Innocence In addition to representing the triumph of the beast within, Simon's death also symbolizes the loss of innocence. Throughout the novel, Simon is portrayed as a pure and caring character who possesses innate goodness. He is the only one who truly understands the beauty and fragility of the island's natural world. His death therefore signifies the destruction of innocence and the corruption of purity. A powerful symbol associated with Simon's death is his encounter with the "Lord of the Flies", a rotting pig's head on a stick. During this hallucination, the pig's head speaks to Simon and his words reveal the darkness that lies dormant within the boys. The leader said to Simon, “Imagine thinking that the Beast was something you could hunt and kill!...You knew that, didn't you? Am I part of you? (Golding143). This conversation highlights the boys' inability to escape their own inner evil, as well as Simon's knowledge of this truth. His death shortly after this encounter signifies the loss of his innocence and purity, as he becomes a victim of the darkness he attempted to expose. Spiritual Awakening and Sacrifice Simon's death also symbolizes a spiritual awakening and sacrifice. Throughout the novel, Simon is portrayed as a Christ-like figure who possesses deep spiritual insight. His connection to nature and his understanding of the true nature of the beast sets him apart from the other boys. The circumstances surrounding his death therefore parallel the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and convey a message of sacrifice for the common good. A symbol, 1954.