An airplane, carrying a group of British boys fleeing a devastating nuclear war, is shot down and crashes, stranding the boys on a tropical island. With the pilot dead and only themselves to rule the island, the boys try to establish some form of order.
Under the leadership of Ralph and the advice of a boy called Piggy, the boys set up rules for survival and rescue. Above all else, a signal fire must be maintained. This responsibility is accepted by Jack and his followers, who are also the hunters.
But something stalks the island, sowing fear and discord. The fire is allowed to die and a rescue ship misses them. Day by day the boys change. Conflicts arise. Mistakes happen. And as time passes, the children become barbaric, careless, and cruel.
Content Warning: This title is recommended for mature readers!
Through William Golding's brilliant and iconic novel, students will learn:
- About the Author: Learn about William Golding.
- Background Information: WWII aftermath, psychoanalysis.
- Vocabulary words used throughout the novel, utilizing a variety of activities to stimulate retention and growth.
- Literary Techniques: In context, dictionary, characterization, setting, allusion, symbol, foreshadowing, imagery, mood, point of view, juxtaposition, irony, Messiah figure, synonym, pathetic fallacy, personification, theme, conflict.
- Moral Lessons and Character Values: Eden, leadership, repentance, Bible study, sin, fear, truth, certainty, restraint, worldviews, rules, mental state, violence, evil, death, moral law, justice.
- Activities and Writing Assignments: Essay choices, creative writing, art, history, map, philosophy, island novels, poem, crossword, elegy.
- Suggestions for Further Reading: We include a wonderful reading list of more books by the same author(s) and other books that tie in with, or are similar to, Lord of the Flies by William Golding.
All of the unit lessons are written from a Christian worldview!