Answer to Question #285432 in English for Kelsey Jand

Question

Lord of the Flies Study Guide Questions

Direction: Your answers need to be thorough, and where possible, quote the text (with citation).

Chapter 8

Symbolism: Interpret the title of the chapter, “Gift for the Darkness,” in two ways. “Lord of the Flies” is an English translation of the name Beelzebub, a common name for either Satan or one of his chief demons. What is the connection between the beast and this skewered sow’s head? What truth has Simon realized that no one else seems to comprehend? Interpret Simon’s confrontation with the Lord of the Flies from an archetypal standpoint.

Answer 1

The beast is seen as Satan in many cultures and Satan is normally seen with a pig's head; therefore providing that connection.

Simon comprehends the truth that the beast is inside each one of us. Simon is the only character who does not feel morality is an artificial invention of society.

Simon is still able to recognize that the Evil One is nothing more than a "pig's head on a stick." Thus, Simon is an archetype of good in confrontation with the Devil, the archetype of evil. The conversation between the Lord of the Flies and Simon is significant because the severed pig's head confirms Simon's belief that the beast is mankind's inherent wickedness. Unlike the other boys, Simon never believed that the beast was a tangible creature that could be hunted and killed.