William Golding's characters signify the theme: man inherits evil. Also, Christianity plays a role, as Biblical allusions satiate the novel. In addition, Golding's characters demonstrate leadership, such as democracy and dictatorship. Finally, symbolism pervades the novel. In order to comprehend William Golding's Lord of the Flies, it is essential to analyze the novel's themes, leadership concepts, and symbols.
             Golding illustrates several themes throughout the novel. "Which is better-to have rules and agree, or to hunt and kill?" (Golding, LOF 180). The development of savagery illustrates the "Original Sin" (Cox 47). When Jack first arrives on the island, civility still subsists in him. This explains why Jack does not kill the pig. Later, however, he turns to savagery. He kills the pigs freely, with no conscience. Jack's lust for killing thrives rapidly and infects the others. Soon hunting for survival becomes killing for enjoyment. Piggy, the voice of reason, wants the tribe to act civilized. Unfortunately, they disregard his plea, and they kill him. Piggy's murder exemplifies the wrongful treatment society gives to good people.
             Along with evil, Christianity prevails throughout the novel. "Implicit in the novel are the Christian concepts of a universe created with a purpose, humanity as fallen, and sacrifice and redemption as significant acts" (Cox 47). The island depicts an "Eden-like paradise; fruits hang ripe for the picking; fresh water flows abundantly from a convenient mountain" (Friedman 65). Simon symbolizes a "Christ-figure" (Fleck 36). He has a place in the jungle where he secretly
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             retreats and meditates-a "church" (Golding, Readings 44). Only Simon sees the tru...