What is the main theme of lord of the Flies and how is the theme communicated in the novel?

Golding, W (2001)., Lord of the Flies (First published 1954)

Beneath the swaying palm trees and blue skies —The reader enjoys adventure with the characters. In William Golding's classic novel "Lord of the Flies," the island setting transforms into a microcosm that captures the complexity of both civilization and human nature. The story, which takes place in a post-World War II setting, explores the moral and psychological challenges faced by a group of British boys who are left behind on an island after their plane crashes. This article will contend that "selfishness motivates murder" is the novel's central theme. I'll demonstrate how the novel conveys this idea in the following paragraphs. I'll examine how the author develops the theme using motifs, characters, and foreshadowing.

At the beginning of the story, the author draws our attention to the hunting by depicting the boys' state of mind. The intense and disturbing instinct emerges in the boys' first hunting experience. They cut off the fresh meat with knives but broke the bowl（Golding,2001,p.23）. The hunting process shows when the boys, fist-driven by primal instincts, engage in a violent act. This gives the reader a clue to reveal the bloodier events when Jack held up the pig’s head and jammed the soft throat down on the pointed end of the stick (Ibid., p.122). The transformation of the hunting expedition into a ritualistic and almost sadistic act of violence becomes a foreshadowing of the boys' descent into barbarism, ultimately leading to murder. 

The best in the boys' minds symbolized a motif connected with inner savagery and corruption. At the beginning of the story, the boys entertain the idea that the beast may be a physical, tangible threat, possibly a creature living in the dense forest. (idle., p.35) The boys are terrified by the idea of a beast on the island. The fear is fueled by the unknown and by the boys' vivid imaginations. Besides, the fear of the beast contributes to the increasing division among the boys. The idea of the beast becomes a tool for manipulation and control, particularly in the hands of characters like Jack, who uses it to consolidate power. (idle., p.112) The lack of a unified understanding exacerbates the conflicts between the different factions, leading to a breakdown in social order. This reflects Golding's exploration of the fragility of civilization and the ease with which it can give way to chaos when confronted with fear and primal instincts.

In "Lord of the Flies," William Golding adeptly employs characterization to convey the idea that murder is motivated by selfishness. Piggy is introduced as an intelligent boy. In the face of the beast in the boy’s heart, he can proceed with his rational mind (idle., p.72). He quickly assumes the role of the group's intellectual, using his glasses to start the signal fire and offering logical suggestions for survival (idle., p.32). As the story progresses, Piggy becomes increasingly isolated and marginalized. The boys' wildness is aroused to show their power, they snatch Piggy's glasses (idle., p.151). This isolation contributes to a sense of vulnerability on Piggy. The glasses, initially a tool for a constructive purpose, are now used for destructive and selfish ends. Piggy meets a tragic end when Roger, a member of Jack's tribe, deliberately pushes a large boulder off a cliff, killing Piggy (idle., p.163). This act symbolizes the complete breakdown of order and reason on the island. His demise underscores the novel's exploration of the darker aspects of human nature.

"Lord of the Flies" uses motif, foreshadowing, and character development to explore the idea that murder is motivated by desire. The theme of the island's collapse in civilization well highlights the deadly consequences of unrestricted selfishness, which leads to murder. In addition, the tragedy of Piggy gives the reader a deep reflection that makes us think about the importance of moral choices for the fate of individuals and collectives. Piggy's violent death highlights the underlying cruelty and brutality in human nature. It is a horrible act of violence. The guys have turned from being morally innocent and submitting to the point where they can kill without feeling guilty. The importance of social rules incorporates ethical principles that guide moral behavior. Not only provides individual protection but also makes the society smoothly functioning. Lord of the Flies offers readers a profound insight into human nature.