Form

Form: Allegorical Novel

  • “Lord of the Flies” is a novel written by William Golding, and it uses an allegorical form, where characters and events represent abstract qualities and ideas.
  • The island and the boys’ society are allegories for the larger scale human society and its structures.
  • The form allows Golding to explore big ideas about human nature, civilisation and savagery.

Form: Adventure Story

  • The novel also takes the form of an adventure story, initially seeming like a “boys’ own” tale of shipwreck and survival.
  • However, the form is subverted as we see the boys descend into savagery and atrocities.
  • This reversal of the usual adventure motif serves to challenge the conventions, deepening Golding’s exploration of the dark side of human nature.

Form: Dystopian Literature

  • Golding’s use of a dystopian setting is significant as it shows a society that was intended to be perfect (a utopia) but has degenerated into the exact opposite.
  • The chaotic and violent society the boys create can be read as a dystopia, a criticism of unrealistic ideals and the dangers of unchecked power.
  • This form serves as a cautionary tale about the over-optimistic view of human nature and ability to create a perfect society.

Form: Psychological Novel

  • “Lord of the Flies” can also be seen as a psychological novel due to its focus on the mental states and motivations of the characters.
  • Golding uses the form to delve into the minds of the characters, exploring their thoughts, fears and desires.
  • Their mental transition from civilised to wild mirrors their physical experiences on the island, deeply exploring how situations can affect our inner psyche.

Use of Language: Vivid Imagery

  • Golding’s writing is rich with imagery which helps to create a tangible, visceral experience of the island and its descent into chaos.
  • Symbolism is frequently used through this imagery, giving the novel depth and allowing Golding to present abstract ideas in a more concrete, visual form.

Use of Language: Intense Action Sequences

  • Golding’s use of intense action scenes contrasts sharply with the peaceful island setting.
  • These sequences, depicting hunts and fights, are described in an evocative and fast-paced manner, emphasising the escalating violence.