Masks Revealed in Golding's LORD OF THE FLIES

Things are not always as they seem. In fact, in today’s society, things are rarely as they seem. William Golding’s novel LORD OF THE FLIES shows the masks that we as humans in a civilized world put on and describes how human beings conceal both good and evil qualities. Do we live in a world of disguise? When I really sit down to think about it, I disturbingly find it true.

Most everything from government to the church possesses a dark secret. We as citizens hide our secrets to appear as a refined society. The United States government remains the most powerful in the world, but people fail to ask how. We do not want to admit that our country, America the beautiful, could contain immoral leadership. So we deny it. Everyone denies it, even the President and Congressional leaders. We simply accept the power and honor, no if, ands, or buts about it.

LORD OF THE FLIES begins in a similar way. Ralph assumes the role of chief in what appears as an organized group of young boys. However, as their organization depletes, so does the quality of leadership. As Jack begins to gain authority, he removes his mask. He reveals an evil side, which he would never have shown before. As his followers increase in number, the mob in

. . .

View the whole essay, without interruption

Golding reveals the malice of the assembly stating, “Simon’s effort fell about him in ruins; the laughter beat him cruelly and he shrank away defenseless against to his seat” (89). Something we—’ Again the pressure of the assembly took his voice away” (128). Personally, I am content in believing some things remain unknown. Ralph feels a compassion for Piggy that no one else feels. However, Ralph matures throughout, and learns the true meaning of friendship.

As a leader, Ralph must listen to the thoughts of the group, which means he sometimes puts his own aside. As a refined British boy, he holds back his fierce desire for competition and his tendencies towards evil. Which leads many to question: can masks constitute a good purpose?

Fear of rejection, longing for acceptance, concealment of evil, and fear in general all lead to the disguises of society. Instead, he confides and trusts in Ralph to relay his messages. Unfortunately, both the slaves and Simon never really get the chance to expose their mind-sets. Ironically, LORD OF THE FLIES captures a sense of modern society in an uncivilized setting, filled with children.

Why should the world be over-wise,

In counting all our tears and sighs?

Nay, let them only see us, while

We wear the mask. If we look closely, we can see ourselves in each of the characters, maybe one more than the other. The weaker personalities fear the harsh society will not accept their opinions; while the over-bearing personalities hide the sensitivity and mannerisms they were taught.

Approximate Word count = 1115
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Simply subscribe to view this paper, and 100,000 others.