Themes

The following themes are presented, developed and supported throughout the story.

Good Vs. Evil- what the characters do and why they do it

1. I believe that Jack is truly evil. This is shown when Jack admits to having a passion to kill, and making fun of Piggy. By Kodi Lawrence

The "Heart of darkness" or how civilized people turn into savages - going from an advanced, orderly society into a primitive one ruled by "native" desires, needs and instincts. Are the boys turning into "savages"? Who? Why? How?

1. I believe the "Heart of Darkness" is represented by Jack. In chapter 3 or 4 he admits to having a passion to kill. By Kodi Lawrence

Rules and Society, and the world of Adult Athority - the importance of rules, common goals, adult versus childish logic and reasoning. Who are the "adults" on the island? Are rules necessary? Do we need to be surrounded by the confines of society act civilized?

1. The importance of rules and adult authority is very important and evident in the book. Without parent authority the boys have became out of control, and are not obeying the rules that would normally not be discussed with their parents. These mistakes could end up costing them their lives. By Kodi Lawrence

Nurture vs. Nature - is person born "good" or "evil" or does that person learn to be good or evil? Which has a stronger effect on a person: genetics or the environment in which he/she is raised?

1. I believe the environment in which a person is raised in has more of an effect than genetics. People are born good, and then affected by their parents attitudes and environment. By Kodi Lawrence

Survival of the fittest- what characteristics are valued? Who is "fit" to make decisions? Why? What skills (physical, mental) are needed to survive on this island? Which chratcers have those strengths?

1. I believe that Ralph is fit to make decisions because he is composed, and because he has his head in the game. I believe Ralph is aware of the current situation, but also very calm. By Kodi Lawrence

Fear - how does fear rule the characters' lives? Is it real or imagined?

1. An example of how fear rules the characters' lives is that they have built shelters to protect and secure them from the lurking "creeper" that has scared them. By Kodi Lawrence

Humans Vs. Nature - how do the boys treat their surroundings? Do they have a thirst for natural destruction? Are they working against their natural environment or using it their advantage? Why environmental messages are being conveyed in the book?

1. An example of humans vs. nature is the fact that the boys need to survive with the limited resources around them. By Kodi Lawrence