How does the 'mask' of face paint relate to the theme of good versus evil?

The mask provides anonymity, which 'liberates' the boys from the shame and self-consciousness of civilization. This psychological distance allows them to commit evil acts without feeling individual moral responsibility.

What is the difference between Simon's and Piggy's versions of 'goodness'?

Simon possesses an innate, spiritual goodness that recognizes evil as an internal force. Piggy's goodness is rational and dependent on societal rules; he views evil as a breakdown of logic rather than a fundamental part of human nature.

Why is it a common error to view the 'Beast' as a literal monster?

Viewing the Beast as literal ignores the author's intent to show that the real 'monster' is the internal capacity for evil. Simon's realization that the Beast is 'only us' is the central philosophical epiphany of the text.

How does Roger's behavior in the early chapters foreshadow his later evil?

In the early chapters, Roger throws stones at a younger boy but 'throws to miss' because he is still conditioned by society. This reveals a latent desire to cause pain that is only held back by the memory of rules, which eventually fade.

What does the 'Lord of the Flies' (the sow's head) symbolize in the conflict of good vs. evil?

It symbolizes the physical manifestation of the boys' internal corruption and the 'Devil' within. It represents the point where the boys stop fearing evil and begin to offer sacrifices to it, effectively worshipping their own savagery.

When comparing Ralph and Jack, how do their leadership styles reflect the theme of evil?

Ralph's leadership is based on the 'good' of collective responsibility and rescue, which is difficult and requires sacrifice. Jack's leadership exploits the 'evil' of fear and the desire for instant gratification through violence and dominance.

What error do students make when interpreting the arrival of the naval officer at the end?

Students often see it as a total victory for 'good,' but the officer is a soldier in a nuclear war. His presence suggests that the boys are simply moving from a small-scale savagery to a large-scale, 'civilized' version of the same evil.

Define 'Inherent Evil' as it applies to the text's philosophy.

Inherent evil is the idea that the capacity for cruelty and destruction is a natural, biological part of being human. It suggests that evil is not learned from the environment but is a 'darkness' that exists in every heart from birth.

How does the murder of Simon represent the triumph of evil over good?

Simon is the embodiment of spiritual truth and absolute goodness. His death at the hands of the entire group—including the 'good' characters—proves that the primal, evil impulse of the mob can destroy even the most virtuous individual.

What is the significance of the phrase 'the darkness of man's heart'?

This phrase, used at the end of the novel, summarizes the author's pessimistic conclusion. It signifies that the true source of the boys' suffering was not the island or the lack of food, but the inescapable evil within themselves.

Lord of the Flies Key Theme: Good versus Evil | AQA GCSE English Literature

Lord of the Flies Key Theme: Good versus Evil

Summary

The conflict between good and evil serves as the philosophical backbone of the narrative, exploring the pessimistic view that evil is an inherent, inescapable part of human nature rather than an external force. Through symbolic characterizations and the psychological manifestation of 'the Beast,' the text argues that societal structures are the only barriers preventing humanity from descending into primal cruelty.

1. Definition & Core Concepts

Inherent vs. External Evil: The core concept posits that evil is not a supernatural force or an outside influence, but a latent characteristic within every individual. This 'darkness of man's heart' remains dormant under the constraints of civilization but emerges when those structures fail.
The Tabula Rasa Fallacy: While the setting of a deserted island suggests a 'blank slate' where children might remain innocent, the narrative argues the opposite. It suggests that without the 'conditioning' of society, the natural state of humanity is not peaceful innocence but a drive toward dominance and violence.
Moral Agency: The theme examines the capacity of individuals to choose between altruism and selfishness. Goodness is presented as a fragile, conscious effort, whereas evil is depicted as a powerful, instinctive pull toward self-gratification and destruction.

A spectrum diagram showing characters positioned between civilized goodness and innate savagery, illustrating the shift toward evil as rules collapse.

2. The Allegory of Character

Simon as Absolute Goodness: Simon functions as a Christ-like figure who possesses an intuitive, spiritual goodness that does not depend on rules. He is the only character who confronts the 'Beast' and realizes it is an internal projection, yet his goodness is ultimately extinguished by the group's collective evil.
Roger as Pure Evil: Roger represents the most extreme manifestation of innate cruelty, serving as a foil to Simon. Initially restrained by the 'taboo of the old life,' he eventually abandons all inhibitions, finding sadistic pleasure in the exercise of power and the infliction of pain.
Ralph and the Flawed Good: Ralph represents the average human capacity for good, which is rooted in social order and common sense. However, his participation in the frenzied murder of Simon demonstrates that even those with good intentions are susceptible to the 'darkness' when the social fabric unravels.

3. The Evolution of Evil

4. Key Distinctions: Moral vs. Rational Good

5. Exam Strategy & Tips