This Evil is in All of Us

Buddha once said, “It is a man’s own mind, not his enemy or foe, that lures him to evil ways.” This idea is demonstrated in William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, as it depicts the message that man is naturally evil through various events in the plot, through its use of symbolism, and through the thoughts and actions of the characters.

First off, the idea that man is evil by nature is illustrated through the events that take place during the plot. As they spend more time on the island, the boys begin to lose control of themselves, including their emotions, thoughts and actions. They start to realize that they can do whatever they want without dealing with any consequences, no matter how wrong or careless their actions may be. When Roger and Maurice pretend to throw rocks at the little children for their own sadistic pleasure, there are no adults to scold them, so they see no reason to stop. They continue to torment and scare the children since they know that no one will stop them, and the children’s discomfort seems to give them a cruel, evil sense of gratification. This proves that the boys can act as they wish, no matter how dangerous or terrible their actions are, which causes them to begin to see no reason to stop any evil behaviours. Also, after being placed in this setting on a deserted island, the boys’ inner evil side is brought out, as they are forced to live as men lived long ago – struggling to survive and slaying animals for food. However, the boys’ need to kill is not just essential for survival, it begins to consume them. In the novel, Jack and his crew do not understand the importance of keeping the signal fire lit, as they are blinded by bloodlust. When they are put in this situation where survival is a concer...

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...hand, his conversation with the pig’s head on a stick does not fit this image. The harsh, hateful words that the pig’s head says to Simon is really his conscience speaking, proving that behind that angelic appearance, he too has evil thoughts. Hence, both Ralph and Simon represent how even the seemingly innocent can have evil thoughts and instincts.

In summary, the plot, use of symbolism, and feelings of the characters illustrate the true, evil nature of man in the compelling novel Lord of the Flies. It is clear that in everything the boys on the island do, the “Id” part of their conscience takes over, since they often act on impulse, lacking a sense of morals. Since these impulsive actions are quite heartless and barbarous, the boys show how all humans, even children, are evil at heart. It is how one chooses to deal with this evil that determines their character.