the use of images, words or nouns to represent abstract ideas or qualities

used to describe a quality we are born with - something that is instinctive and natural

an uncontrollable desire to hurt or kill others

Golding's use of symbolism in 'Lord of the Flies'

English

In 'Lord of the Flies', students explore central questions about what gives us authority within society and whether power inevitably corrupts those who hold it. In 'Animal Farm: The Pigs and Power', students also explore the corrupting influence of power and question whether those who hold power are bound to abuse it. 

In 'A Monster Within', students look at villains in gothic fiction and, through their study of context, explore whether they are in fact made monstrous due to social fears and prejudices. In 'Lord of the Flies', students explore the powerful influence of social hierarchy and, using very different context, unpick what Golding's central message about human civilization might be. 

In this unit, pupils read and explore 'The Lord of the Flies' by considering Golding's message about human nature. They first read the novel, before analysing the characters Ralph, Simon, Jack and Piggy. They then look at setting and symbolism before planning and writing an essay on human nature.

'Lord of the Flies'

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Which character in 'Lord of the Flies' does not respect the conch?

What might the conch represent in 'Lord of the Flies'?

he argues that the rules don't apply on top of the mountain

he finds another conch and uses that against Ralph

How does Jack undermine the rules of the conch in 'Lord of the Flies'?

What might the black charcoal in Jack's face paint in 'Lord of the Flies' represent?

Which of the following words is used to describe Jack with the face paint on in 'Lord of the Flies'?

the use of images, words or nouns to represent abstract ideas 

used to describe a quality we are born with 

Match the key words up to their definitions.

a brief statement that refers to a character or incident from another text 

comparing two things in order to show the difference between them

Which of the following symbols represents rationality and logic in 'Lord of the Flies'?

What is the conch used for in 'Lord of the Flies'?

{{ }} is a form of government in which people choose leaders by voting. 

What colours does Jack paint his face with in Chapter 4 of 'Lord of the Flies'?

his brother was murdered when he was a young boy

he had witnessed it firsthand whilst away at war

he was a psychologist and was interested in where cruelty comes from

he was a teacher and had been bullied by his students

Why was William Golding so interested in man's innate savagery?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Golding's use of symbolism in 'Lord of the Flies'

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.