Allegory – a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.

Themes:

  • Civilisation – fragile
  • Civil / Social Division
  • Power
  • Violence
  • Humanity & Moral Decay

Time, place, social setting, atmosphere:

Set during World War 2 on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific. All boys, ages ranging from approximately 6 years (“littleuns”) – 12 years (“biguns”). The social hierarchy reflects that of every-day life as the littleuns look up to the biguns as their role-models and protectors. Another similarity to regulacivilisationon is how respect is influenced by appearance. This is proven when Piggy is ostracized for his weight and glasses, despite having the strongest intellect in the group.

Examples:

  • VIOLENCE – pg. 114: “The circle moved in and round. Robert squealed in mock terror, then in real pain {…} ‘Just a game,’ said Ralph uneasily {…} ‘You want a real pig,’ said Robert {…} ’cause you’ve got to kill him.’ ‘Use a littleun,’ said Jack, and everybody laughed.
  • LOSING MINDS – pg. 143: ” ‘Fancy thinking the beast was something you could hunt and kill!’ {…} You knew, didn’t you? I’m part of you? Close, close, close! I’m the reason why it’s no go? Why things are what they are?’

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Writing