An introduction to the author and novel

Lord of the Flies

Born in Cornwall, England, 1911Studied science and literature

Sigmund Freud’s philosophy of psychoanalysis is popular

Became a schoolmaster; through observation concluded that our civilized selves are somewhat fragile

Joined British Navy during WWIIRe-evaluated his view of human nature and

questioned humanity

William Golding – His life and influences

“I learned during WWII just how brutal people can be to each other. Not just Germans or Japanese, but everyone. I tried to point that out (in the novel). Some have said that the brutality of the novel is impossible. It’s not: look in any newspaper.” –Golding

William Golding continued

Published 1954Attempts to show we all have potential for

evil; defects of society can be traced to defects in man

The island is a microcosm; the problems there are the problems of the world.

Symbolism: what happens to civilized people when structures of civilization disappear

Title: a translation for the Hebrew word for Beelzebub: the devil, Satan

The Novel

A psychological interpretation of the novel

The human mind is comprised of three parts: The IDThe EGOThe SUPEREGO

Each part has its own function, but the three interact to govern behavior

Sigmund Freud and Psychoanalysis

Primitive part of our personalityConsists of basic biological needs and drives;

instinctualNeed for food, drink, to avoid pain, obtain

pleasure, aggressionSeeks immediate gratification of impulses

The ID

The executive or reality principle: This part of us says we can’t always satisfy our immediate impulses; there are consequences if we do.

Decides which actions are appropriate, which impulses will be satisfied

Delay gratification for appropriate environment

Mediates between the ID and the SUPEREGO

The EGO

Represents values and morals of society taught by parents, teachers, etc.

Our conscience; it decides what is right and wrong

ID seeks pleasure, EGO tests reality, SUPEREGO strives for perfection

Under normal circumstances, the three work together to produce balance and allow us to operate in society

The SUPEREGO

The island is likened to the Garden of Eden: innocent, pure, untouched

Concept of original sin symbolized by the scarChrist figureSatan and temptation evident throughout

Christian Interpretation