Lord of the Flies Study Questions
1
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Chapter 1
1. Identify these characters:
a. Ralph – handsome, athletic, natural leader, fair-haired, 12+, father is commander in Navy
b. Piggy – very intelligent, physically less than perfect fat boy, a reader and a thinker rather
than a boy of action, parents dead lives, with aunt, has asthma, poor vision
c.
Simon – poetic, sensitive, loner, rather mysterious boy, black hair, skinny
d. Jack – last name Merridew, choir leader, “ugly without silliness” (20), tall, thin, boney, redheaded, face was crumpled and freckled, light blue eyes
e. Sam & Eric – identical twins later know as Samneric, as if they were one, chunky & vital
f.
Maurice – choir boy, as big as Jack, “grinning all the time”, broad
g. Roger – secretive, “slight furtive boy” who later shows a natural tendency toward cruelty,
dark – personality?
h. “The littluns” – name given to the numerous little children of the group, 6 or younger
2. How did the boys arrive on the island? Their plane crashes (was shot down) 8
3. What does Ralph's dad do? He is in the Royal Navy – Commander 13
4. What nationality are the boys? English or British 16
5. The island was roughly _______ - shaped. Boat 29
6. What is the "scar?" Where the plane landed 8
7. What do the boys have that is the symbol of authority in the society they form? The conch shell is
the symbol of authority. It shows who is the boss, and who has the right to speak
8. What does the reader learn about Jack when he slashed the green candle buds? Jack’s method of
dealing with the world seems to be violent. 30
9. For whom did Piggy vote as chief? Ralph 23
10. Who went to make sure the island was really an island? (3 answers) Ralph, Jack, Simon 24
11. Why does Jack hesitate when he lifts his knife to kill the piglet, and what does he promise will
happen next time he meets a pig? Jack’s hesitation shows that he must learn to put aside his
inhibitions, whether they are learned or natural. He promises that “next time there would be no
mercy.” 31
12. Who are the hunters, and what is their job? The choirboys have become hunters. Their job is to get
food. 23
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
2
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
13. How is Piggy excluded from the group? How does this help the group? Initially Piggy is excluded
when Ralph reveals his nickname to the group. Later he is excluded again when Ralph leads an
expedition to explore the island. The group seems to join together when its members exclude Piggy.
14. How does Ralph try to win Jack’s friendship? Ralph proclaims that Jack will continue to be the leader
of the choir and says that they will be whatever Jack wants them to be. He chooses Jack to
accompany him as he explores the island.
15. What kind of leader do you think the boys needed on the island? Whom would you have selected?
Possible answer - Leader needs to organize boys who were without adult supervision for the first time
in their lives. Maybe students should weigh the perception and leadership qualities of Ralph, Jack,
Piggy, and Simon
Literary elements questions
16. What details let the reader know that the story is being told by an omniscient narrator rather than by
one of the characters? Beginning passages are told by an all-knowing narrator who is not one of the
characters. The narrator tells what can be seen and heard as the story develop.
17. Why is the background material an important aspect of the plot? Narrator uses the dialogue between
the fair boy and the fat boy to recount the background of the story – plane evacuating children was
attacked and part of it went up in flames and part of it crashed on an island. Some children escaped
before the crashed part was carried out to sea by a storm
18. By using the island as a setting, how does the author create a situation for addressing the question
“How would human beings behave if they did not have to conform to an already existing social
order?” Author is raising the question. Many people believe that people living apart from society
behave better than they do now
19. Despite rejecting convention, what do all the boys do that expresses the need for social order? Ralph
pulls off his clothes since he knows there is no adult supervision. Call a meeting, elect a leader,
assign tasks, etc.
20. How do Piggy’s thought-out conclusions develop into his suggestions and actions toward social order?
He can think through a situation and form logical conclusions that lead to …
21. What does Jack Merridew’s appearance and his domination over the choir tell you about his
personality? Choir first appears as a dark shadow. Black cloaks cover the bodies. Figure of Jack
inside a flowing cloak is tall, thin, and bony. 19
22. Why does Ralph emerge as the popular leader? How does Piggy influence Ralph’s leadership? He
betrays’ Piggy’s trust by revealing his nickname, and he excludes Piggy from the explorers. He is
stuck with the children…
Chapter 2
1.
Who is the only one who may interrupt the speaker holding the conch? Ralph 33
2.
Who says, repeatedly that there isn't a beast? Ralph 36
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
3
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
3.
Ralph makes a two-fold "mission statement.” What are the two parts? We want to have fun, we want to
get rescued 37
4.
Why do they need a fire? So ships or planes can see them 38
5.
What did the boys use to start the fire? Piggy’s glasses 39-40
6.
Which of the littluns is missing? Who notices he is not with the group? What do you think has happened
to him? The boy with the birthmark
Piggy
died 46
7.
What does a littlun think he has seen in the forest? Which littlun? A snakelike thing which they later call a
beastie
the boy with the birthmark 35-36
8.
Why does the boys’ plan for rescue fail? Not a well thought-out plan. Too much firewood for a small
controllable fire, and never thought of a way to control the fire to keep from getting out of hand. Most of
the easy firewood is burnt up making keeping the fire more difficult 43 or 44
Literary elements questions
9.
Why does Jack seem so eager to punish anyone who breaks the rules? The way Jack deals with anything
is very violent -- various
10. What might be the significance of the varying views of the beastie? There are no adults around so there is
no one to make them feel better and it’s the unknown that they can’t comprehend or deal with. – various
11. Compare the uncontrollable fire that Jack ignited with the behavior of Jack and the boys who followed him.
They built the fire and it burned up almost all of their wood supply, the boys are uncontrollable just like
the fire. -- more
12. How are the boys faced with the consequences of their actions? Because they burned up all the wood
supply they had to go farther away to get wood to burn to keep the fire burning and they had to venture
into the jungle. -- more
Who said it?
13. "How do you expect to be rescued if you don't put first things first and act proper?” Piggy 45
14. "I told you to. I told you to get a list of names!” Ralph 46
15. "We'll have rules! Lots of rules! Then when anyone breaks 'em-" Jack 33
Chapter 3
1.
What is Jack doing as the chapter opens (be specific)? Tracking a pig 48
2.
Ralph and _________ are building huts. Simon 50 & 54
3.
Why can't Jack get the pig to stay on his spear? Because there is not a barb on the spear. 51
4.
All the hunters but Jack have gone where?
5.
Who helps the littluns get fruit?
Swimming 56
Simon 56
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
4
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
6.
At the end of the chapter, where does Simon go?
To his secret spot in the jungle. 56-57
7.
Although Ralph criticizes the boys for their lack of cooperation, does he bear some of the responsibility for the
failures of the group to achieve its goals? Why or why not? Yes, he desires to bring civilization to the island,
but lacks he confidence to do so. He believes life is much like a story book, and although there are obstacles,
the clever boys will overcome them all, and they will emerge victorious in the traditional, happy ending. Ralph
has an idealized view of life and can never really get a grip on carrying out his plans. various
8.
How has Jack’s personality developed during his stay on the island? Jack has degenerated from a superficially
civilized school boy to a near animal level. He yearns to kill, yet he too is learning the vast difference between
imagining himself a hunter and actually killing a living creature. Once he begins to kill and gets over his initial
squeamishness, he will become ruthless. various
9.
Ralph says of Simon, “He’s queer. He’s funny.” What kind of boy is Simon? Simon is one of Ralph’s most loyal
and helpful workers. Yet, when he has some free time, he goes off by himself to find a place to be quiet and
think. Society, like the boys, distrusts those who are loners. The love of beauty and solitude are suspect.
10. Compare and contrast the descriptions of Jack and Simon in the jungle. What can be inferred about their
personalities? Jack moves around the jungle like an animal. Jack is described as crawling around on all fours
like a dog, sniffing the ground, animalistic. Simon appreciates nature; he enjoys nature and is often one with
nature. He compares the flowers to candle buds. Jack is predatory and Simon is poetic.
11. Why does Jack say that when he is hunting in the jungle, he understands how the animals feel? He is more in
tune with that animal’s side. Jack is revealing that his animal instincts are so strong that he becomes both the
hunter and the hunted. 53
12. In every society there are people who are builders and people who are destroyers. Is it possible for these two
elements to coexist peaceably? Various -- may feel that sometimes destruction is necessary in order to rebuild
more effectively. Balance between the two might make co-existence possible. ME -- Yes but the builders must
outnumber the destroyers to keep them in line.
Literary elements questions
13. What are the details in the description that depicts Jack as a predatory animal? Various -- Crawling around on
all fours, sniffing the ground, dog-like, crouches with his face a few inches from the ground.
14. What do you think was more important, Ralph’s project or Jack’s task? Various -- Ralph was building huts, Jack
was hunting for food. Conflict intensifies until “the antagonism is audible”, Ralph is disenchanted with the
group’s failure to complete the huts needed for shelter.
15. Why do you think snakes “were not mentioned, were not mentionable”? Snakes represent evil and reminds the
littluns of the kid who first mentioned the beastie.
16. How does Simon’s reaction to the littluns express his character? They follow him and ask unintelligibly for fruit
and assistance. He pauses in his trip; he helps them find fruit, even climbing a tree and makes sure they are
happy and satisfied before he continues on.
17. “Simon was not in the bathing pool as they had expected … Their scent spilled into the air and took possession
of the island” Why is this passage narrated from Simon’s point of view? Author has shown details that Simon
would notice, for example, “unexpected pale flowers”, “dark aromatic bushes”, “a bowl of heat and light”, “a
rapid climber flaunted red and yellow sprays right to the top:. “a pair of gaudy butterflies”, “honey-colored
sunlight”, “green candle like buds”. To show Simon’s appreciation for nature and what the island had to offer
them. 55
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
5
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Who said it? (Indicate page number)
18. "We want meat!" Jack 51 & 54
19. "I was talking about smoke! Don't you want to be rescued? All you talk about is pig, pig, pig!" Ralph 54
20. "I thought I might kill" Jack 51
Chapter 4
1.
Who "still felt the unease of wrongdoing?"
2.
Who was affected by the "taboo of the old life?"
3.
How was Jack "liberated from the shame of self-consciousness?" by painting on a mask 64
4.
Why did the "littluns" always obey the summons of the conch? They were used to the rules of normal society –
Ralph being a link to the adult world - and they thought the assemblies were entertaining. 59
5.
Why did Jack want Samneric to get him a coconut? So he could put water in it and see his reflection. 63
6.
Why weren't the boys rescued?
Maurice 60
Rodger 62
The fire went out. 69
7.
Why were the littluns used to "Stomach aches and a sort or chronic diarrheoa?" They weren’t picky about what
they ate. 59
8.
After Maurice and Roger destroy the littlun’s sand castles, Roger stalks the boy named Henry. When he begins
to throw stones, why does he just throw them near him instead of directly at him? He is still following the rule
of “you don’t hit somebody with a rock.” He is still following the old laws of church, school, family – this holds
him back.
9.
Describe Roger. Secretive, evil, mean, capable of great cruelty
10. What causes the hunters, who had promised to keep the fire burning, to neglect it and allow it to go out?
They were hunting/ they were searching for the pig. Jack’s immediate goal is to kill a pig, and all else is
forgotten. Building a fire and rescue are long-term goals. Savages cannot deal with long-term goals; they only
live in the present, for instant gratification of their immediate needs.
11. What does Piggy suggest that the boys could make with the materials available on the island? A sundial. 64
12. What materials does Jack use to paint his face?
can become an anonymous savage. 63
Clay and charcoal Why? To blot out his real features and he
13. From the time he sees the first pig to the time he helps to kill the mother pig, how does Jack change? He
becomes like an animal. The first pig he cannot kill because he is living by the rules of civilized society. The
second pig he kills he is now ready to ignore those rules. He takes delight in it.
14. Why does the narrator say that the mask compels the twins to follow Jack? They are fascinated with it just like
Jack was. They know it is out of the ordinary, something they do not understand.
15. The boys acting out the killing of the pig seems intended by the author to represent savagery. Is there a
situation where this activity would not be considered in that way? In a traditional hunting culture, a ritual
hunting dance might be enacted to bring good luck for the actual hunt. -- Various
16. How did Piggy’s specs get broken? In a fight 71
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
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Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Literary elements questions
17. How do Roger and Maurice exercise their power over the smaller boys? How does Henry exercise power?
Henry gets satisfaction exercising control over living things. Like the other boys, Henry likes exercising his
power over weaker creatures. Roger stalks the boys and then throws rocks around the boy. Various
18. How does the mask allow Jack to behave differently? It’s not Jack anymore with the mask on, it is now the
lead hunter. The mask does not have to follow the rules Jack does. The author uses Jack’s new face to show
changes in Jack that have occurred since the boys began to live outside civilized society.
19. How are Piggy’s glasses used as a symbol? They are the power to start fire. Piggy is the one who can think
through a situation and see the significance of events. How is he affected by the loss of one lens –
does he still see as clear? In literature, the sightless person is sometimes the one who sees the clearest.
20. When Maurice pretends to be the pig, and the hunters pretend to beat him, what purpose are they
accomplishing? They are reliving the hunt in a ritualistic way. Remember – the first time none of them were
willing to kill, the attitude has now changed and they take delight in the recounting the story of the kill.
Who said it?
21. "You don't half look a mess" Roger 63
22. "They don't smell me. They see me, I think. Something pink, under the trees." Jack 63
Chapter 5
1. What is “Taken short?’ need to go to the bathroom 80
2. What does Ralph think they ought to do before they let the fire go out? Die 81
3.
Who scared the littlun by walking around in the jungle at night? Simon 85
4. Who are the littluns who hold the conch and speak about the beast at the assembly? Phil & Percival
84 & 86
5. How does the author show us that Ralph is finally beginning to face the realities of the existence?
Author tells us that Ralph does not really like to live a life where he has to watch where he walks; nor
does he like filthy, frayed clothing or dirty, tangles, long hair. To Ralph, this adventure is becoming
messy and real and scary.
6. Compare Ralph’s treatment of the littluns with Jack’s. Ralph tries to calm and give a sense of
security. Jack intimidates and frightens them
7. What is Simon saying when he thinks the “beast” may be inside the boys themselves? HE is trying to
say that the dark side of the human personality can destroy mankind. Reason and imagination are
the only checks men have to quell his “dark side”. 89
8. What ability of Piggy’s does Ralph come to admire? Ralph admires Piggy’s ability to think. 78
9. Why is it unwise for Ralph to discuss the beast at an evening assembly? The boys’ fears are
strongest at night; the discussion heightens their fears. 82
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
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Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Literary elements questions
10. What has Ralph seen that has caused a loss of innocence? One form of a loss of innocence occurs
when children realize that they are responsible for themselves and others. Ralph is struggling to
understand why the boys haven’t been living happily on the island. Ralph is aware that the idyllic life
he had envisioned has not become a reality
11. In what way is the boys’ fear rational? In what way is it irrational? Each of the main characters is
trying to deal with the fear that is gripping the boys. Jack acts like an authoritarian when he tells the
littluns to put up with the fear. Piggy seeks to be rational and scientific; the only thing to fear is
people. When Percival says that the beast comes out of the sea, the boys realize that they cannot be
sure about the beast. Simon, the spiritual one, tries to articulate his belief that the beast is only
something in themselves.
12. What kind of government best represents each boy’s idea of order? Piggy articulates one of the
central questions raised in the book. The three speakers respond characteristically. Piggy suggests
they are no longer human. Ralph expresses his faith in the rules, which will enable them to remain
civilized. Jack expresses his contempt for the rules and contends that it is their skills as hunters that
will enable them to survive. 91
13. How is the boys’ behavior on the island similar to adult behavior in the world? Boys still have faith in
the adult world. The reader knows that the adult world has already failed the boys. Because adults
did not meet to discuss their problems and try to prevent a catastrophe, the destruction of the world
that they knew has taken place.
Who said it?
14. “The thing is, we need an assembly.” Ralph 78
15. Serve you right if something did get you, you useless lot of cry-babies!” Jack 83
16. “Life…is scientific, that’s what it is.” Piggy 84
17. “What I mean is…maybe it’s only us.” Simon 89
18. “What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages?” Piggy 91
Chapter 6
1. What was the "sign that came down from the world of the grown-ups?" a parachuting pilot 95
2. What did the boys want to do instead of going to the other side of the island to check the fire? Make
a fort and roll rocks 108
3. What do Sam and Eric tell the boys they have seen? What is it actually? Have seen a beast -corpse of the parachutist being blown by the wind 99
4. Why do Ralph and Jack decide to go find the beast? They know they must face the beast if they are
to have hope of being free from fear on the island
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
8
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
5. What caused the “beast” out over the island? There was an air battle and the plane was hit so the
pilot bailed out 95
6. What message from the world of grown-ups does the figure of the “beast” represent? The figure
represents the message that the world order has broken down
7. Has someone you know ever been afraid of an unknown evil? How did that person behave? How
was the fear alleviated? References to fear of early childhood, fear may have been investigated as in
looking under the bed for the monster???????
Literary elements questions
8. What other actions on the island mirror the chaos of the adult world? How does it change things on
the island for an actual “beast” to appear? The beast arriving from the air as a victim of a battle
shows that the chaos of the island mirrors the chaos of the world beyond. Various answers
9. Which character is better able to help the boys survive on the island? Why? Ralph holds to his belief
in democratic power. Jack argues for the authoritarian power that he is determined to exercise. HE
even says that some people shouldn’t be allowed to speak. various
10. How does Jack reach for power? Jack uses the boys’ need for fun against Ralph’s need for order and
the signal fire. various
Who Said It?
11. "I don't believe in the beast." Simon 98
12. "We want smoke. And you go wasting your time. You roll rocks." Ralph 108
Chapter 7
1.
Who hit the boar with his spear? Ralph 113
2.
Who got hurt playing the role of the pig? Robert 114
3.
Who went through the forest alone to tell Piggy that the group hunting the beast wouldn't be back until after
dark? Simon 117
4.
Who climbed the mountain to look for the beast? (3 answers) Ralph, Jack, Roger 120
5.
How does Ralph react when a boar comes charging down the path? Ralph throws his wooden spear and scores
a lucky hit. It does not deter the boar, but it does show Ralph a side of himself that he has refused to
acknowledge. He exults in his ability to wound a living creature.
6.
To what does Ralph’s demonstration of his hunting prowess lead? Robert pretends to be an animal and snarls at
Ralph. The boys got into a hunting frenzy, at first jokingly and then really jabbing and poking at Robert. They
went out of control.
7.
What did the boys see on the mountaintop? At first, they saw a lump or a hump where no rock should be.
Then, conquering his nausea, Ralph stood up and saw “something like a great ape.” The wind blew and the
billowing parachute lifted the head and torso of the “ape” showing them “the ruin of a face.” 123
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
9
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
8.
Why is the action of the story increasingly taking place in the near darkness or in the deep night when only the
moon and stars give a little light? Darkness has always symbolized something evil as light has always
symbolized something good. “The Prince of Darkness” is another name for the devil, evil.
9.
How does Ralph’s waning confidence in himself show in his words and actions? He has begun to bite his nails.
He shudders involuntarily and twists his hands unconsciously. 121 He has become bitter at the collapse of his
dreams and plans. When Piggy asks, “What are we going to do?”, for the first time Ralph answers, “I don’t
know.” 109 & 124
10. What books from his boyhood does Ralph recall as he thinks about home? He recalls The Boy’s Book of Trains,
The Boy’s Book of Ships, The Mammoth Book for Boys. 112
11. Why does the narrator say that Ralph would never be a good chess player? Ralph is not a good thinker or a
clever strategist. For these reasons, he would be a poor chess player and an inferior leader.
12. Why does Simon want to climb the mountain? He does not believe in an actual beast. He thinks that if the boys
climbed the mountain, they would realize this.
13. Do you think it is ever advisable to act against the inner voice of reason? What circumstances might justify your
behavior? Various. Yes – assuming risks requires acting against the inner voice of reason. NO – may think that
reason should always prevail
Literary elements questions
14. What kinds of deterioration in daily life besides physical appearance are described from Ralph’s point of view?
Enables reader to understand the depth of his dismay at the condition of the boys. IF Ralph could have
accepted the changes in his appearance, he might have been able to accept other changes in the boys’ behavior
as well.
15. Why are the mirages around the lagoon valuable to the boys as they lived on the island? The change in setting
from one side of the island to the other forces Ralph and the reader to recognize the remoteness of the island.
Here the island is seen clearly, without any mirage. Ralph is forced to see clearly too.
16. What do you think Simon means when he says to Ralph, “You’ll get back to where you came from”? When
Simon speaks to Ralph, he seems to know Ralph’s thoughts. The message that he gives Ralph is reassuring.
Readers who recognize Simon as the seer will believe with him that Ralph will get back to civilization. 111
17. What experience to date do you think has had the strongest influence on Ralph’s loss of innocence? Ralph’s
reveries make clear that he is longing for the security of his boyhood. The house, the nursery, the books - all
evoke the image of a safe English boyhood. These comforting aspects of childhood can no longer be Ralph’s.
What he has experienced on the island has changed him.
18. What other changes might be expected now that Ralph understands the appeal of the hunt? The sudden
appearance of the boar surprises everyone. Ralph aims his stick at the boar and hits him. For the first time, he
is experiencing the thrill of the hunt. Ralph, who was unwilling to hunt before then, experiences a change of
heart. He seems not to be able to maintain his standards of civilizations.
19. What else in the story gives a hint that someone will be killed on the island? Recall that Robert plays the part of
the pig as the boys engage in the mock attack. While they are brandishing their sticks and knives, the boys
forget that they are playing. Robertr is hurt and frightened. Ralph is ashamed that he was carried away by the
game, so he tries to affirm that it was only a game. In order to engage in a real attack, the boys need a real
pig, or a littlun, as Jack suggests. Jack’s ease in proposing that they substitute a littlun for a pig should warn
the reader that a life will be taken.
20. What other aspects of the setting show nature to be harsh? Look at details of setting. Nature here is harsh and
unyielding, and the boys are clearly isolated in their quest.
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
10
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
21. Why did Ralph show he was vulnerable when he asked Jack, “Why do you hate me?” The author uses the
analogy of the chess player to show a change in Ralph’s behavior. Ralph’s question makes him vulnerable to
Jack’s malice – challenged Jack’s courage. Ralph’s character has changed because of life on the island. 118
22. Why do you think Simon volunteers for the unpleasant mission? Simon’s attitude marks him as standing apart
from the others.
23. Now that a beast has been found, what new problem do the boys have to grapple with in their assembly?
Ralph has reversed their roles and challenged Jack’s courage. When Jack returns and reports that he has seen
the beast, the other two boys join him so that they can witness it.
24. What details show how frightening the beast was to the boys in the darkness? The narrator describes the beast
as it was seen by the three boys. Simile – “something like a great ape was sitting asleep with its head between
its knees.”
Chapter 8
1. Who called the first assembly? Jack (125)
2. During the assembly, how many voted that Ralph shouldn't be chief? None (127)
3. The hunters get a new name. What is it? Savages
4. The group of boys looked at it with affectionate respect. What was it? the conch or the white shell
(141)
5. Although he is not able to get the boys to vote Ralph out of office as chief, Jack manages to
overthrow Ralph’s authority anyway. How? He simply announces, “I’m not going to play anymore.
Not with you.” His statements reflect the notion that the predicament of the boys is an adventure, a
game. With a typical child’s reaction, he decides not to “play” anymore since he doesn’t like the rules
of Ralph’s game. He goes off to “play” by himself, to get some of the kids to “play” his game. 127
6. Jack suggests a way to keep the beast happy. What is it? He suggests they give the beast part of
each kill they make 133
7. Describe Simon’s strange encounter with the Lord of the Flies. Whether Simon’s encounter is
imagined, or supernatural is not very clear. The content of the Lord’s message, though is central to
the book. The Lord of the Flies explains to Simon that it is useless to try to kill the beast. “I am a
part of you,” he says. Golding seems to imply that no matter what name you give to evil, be it sin,
the devil, neurosis, hate, violence, terrorism, or sheer wanton destruction, these traits are inside of
man. The conflict between good and evil is inside each boy on the island and it is inside all of us.
This book, which pictures the downfall of a small society on an unknown island, also gives a portrait
of what it means to be human. 137-138 1438. Who or what is the Lord of the Flies? Is evil represented by the pig’s head
9. How do Sam and Eric and Bill respond to Jack’s invitation to come to a feast? The boys want to go
because they think it will be fun.
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
11
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Literary elements questions
10. How do you think the claims to leadership by Ralph and Jack will be affected by their admissions?
Ralph has become more honest in his assessment of the group. He knows that the boys will be
unable to fight the beast. Even Jack reiterates that no one knows what the beast is or where it came
from.
11. How does the latest confrontation between Jack and Ralph advance the plot of the story? Jack has
the edge because of his deep rage over old and new slights. When he calls for a show of hands,
however, Jack is humiliated further. Point out the inappropriateness of Jack’s declaration: “I’m not
going to play any longer.” Instead of sounding like a hunter, he sounds like a spoiled little boy. At
the end of his tirade, when Jack heads into the forest, the group enters a new phase. Ralph has
seemingly been confirmed as the chief, but the reader soon learns that this is not to be.
12. On what other occasions has Piggy tried to blame all the group’s problems on Jack? What does this
tell you about Piggy? Ralph and Piggy are forced to acknowledge that they have lost most of the big
boys from the group. Even in the face of this defection, Piggy maintains his belief that the smaller
group will be better off. He gathers fruit and Sam and Eric provide a celebration feast.
13. On what other occasions was it difficult for Simon to speak at the assemblies? Simon goes to his
special place of sunlight and butterflies. Earlier, at the assembly, Simon had overcome his reticence
and told the boys that they should go to the mountaintop. He is encouraging the boys to face the
beast, whatever it is. Because his suggestion was rejected, he decides to go off by himself to think.
14. What earlier behavior of Jack’s indicated the kind of leader he would be? Jack is authoritarian, not
democratic. He rules by fiat: “I say this.”
15. On what other occasions have the boys been bolstered by the rituals they perform? Unlike a true
hunter Jack picks a nursing sow as the target for the kill. Jack’s growing excitement is shared by the
other boys who hunt and kill with him. After the kill, Jack rubs the blood on Maurice, imitating a
primitive ritual.
16. For what purpose does Jack leave the sow’s head for the beast? Where do they place the pig’s
head? The boys are once again enacting a primitive ritual when they leave part of the kill for the
beast.
17. In what ways is Simon different from the rest of the boys on the island? Note that the place where
Simon sits is no longer peaceful. Simon alone looks into the eyes of the Lord of the Flies. He alone
confronts evil.
18. In what ways have the boys lost their identities on the island? The hunter’s painted faces conceal
their identities, which enables them to do things they would not otherwise do.
19. What has the phrase “to do someone” signified elsewhere in the story? Why does this appear to be
foreshadowing? Regarding Simon’s illusion that the Lord of the Flies is speaking to him; Simon
recognizes most clearly the nature of evil: “I’m part of you.” Only Simon knows the terrible truth. As
Simon feels a seizure coming on, he hears from the beast the phrase “we shall do you.” p136-144
p145 you know ever better
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
12
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Who said it?
20. "I'm not going to play any longer. Not with you." Jack 137
21. "I think we ought to climb the mountain." Simon 128
22. "We'll hunt and I'm going to be chief" Jack 133
23. "The head is for the beast, it's a gift." Jack 137
24. "I'd like to put on war-paint and be a savage. But we must keep the fire burning." Ralph 140
25. "Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill." The head of the LOF 143
26. "You knew didn't you? I'm part of you?" the head of the Lord of the Flies 143
Chapter 9
1.
What was the "cannon" that "continued to play" throughout chapter 9? Thunder 145
2.
Where does Simon go when he wakes from sleep? He climbs the mountain to face the beast. 146
3.
What changes can be seen in Piggy when he angrily fights with Ralph in the water? Piggy is asserting that he
and Ralph are equals. He no longer feels that he must submit to whatever Ralph does. Defends himself verbally
4.
Who sat, like an idol, painted and garlanded, in the center of the lawn? Jack 149
5.
During the party, evening had come, not with calm beauty, but with the threat of violence . 150
6.
At the party, who acted like the pig? Roger 151 or 152
7.
What does Simon find when he finally reaches the Beast? HE discovers the truth that the beast is actually a
dead pilot. The lines of his parachutes have been tangled in such a way that when the wind blows and inflates
the chute, it lifts the dead figure into a sitting position and thereby gives the figure a semblance of life. 146
8.
What happens to Simon when he returns to the group? Do they know what they have done? The hunters doing
ritual dance kill him.
9.
As a result of the storm with its high winds and high tides, what happens to the bodies of Simon and “the
beast”? they are taken out to sea
10. How does the attack on Simon parallel examples from life that you have read about in newspapers or seen
enacted on televisions? -- Site examples of mindless mob violence -Literary elements questions
10. In what other places in the novel has the author used the point of view of an omniscient narrator to distance the
reader from the events on the island? Why? The concluding passage from the last chapter was from Simon’s
point of view. In contrast, the opening passage of “A View to a Death” begins from the point of view of the
omniscient narrator. This third-person perspective imparts a matter of fact tone to the gruesome details in the
opening paragraphs. Chapter 1
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
13
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
11. How does Simon regard the beast when he is close to it? As Simon renews his determination to climb the
mountain to confront the beast, the point of view of the narrator changes. This shift in point of view enables the
reader to feel what Simon feels.
12. If Simon had known what was going to happen to him as a result of his mission, would he have gone anyway?
Once Simon understands the nature of the beast, he resolves to bring the news to the others. – various
opinions
13. What other incident in the novel uses the setting to help shape the events of the story? The setting has shifted
to another part of the island. Here Simon struggles against terrain and is buffeted by the wind. It is only in this
setting that the parachutist could have been trapped and could have taken on the appearance of a beast. various
14. What illusion is created by the exclusion of Piggy, which unites the group? Notice the changing alliances that
have resulted in isolating Ralph and Piggy from the rest of the boys. The other boys are portrayed as laughing
and singing. [The defection of Sam and Eric makes Ralph’s loss of leadership complete. Ch 11]
15. What is the result of the struggle for power? Why? Notice Jack’s use of power as he orders the boys to give
Ralph and Piggy some meat. It is Jack who gives everyone permission to eat. When he wants a drink, he
demands one. Jack’s power is at its height when he asks: “Who’s going to join my tribe?” Ralph believes that
he should continue to be the chief because he was elected to lead the group. Jack believes he should be the
chief because he is strong.
16. Which passages foreshadow the terror of the night to come? First, the narrator says that “evening was come,
not with calm beauty but with the threat of violence.” Then Piggy warns Ralph that “There’s going to be
trouble.” 150-151
17. How do these developments set the scene for Simon’s appearance and the boys’ actions? The impending storm
provokes a feeling of restlessness in the group. Jack calls on the boys to “Do our dance!” The ritual dance gives
comfort to the frightened boys. The chant associated with killing the pig changes to “Kill the beast!” “Cut his
throat!” “Spill his blood!” The group becomes a single entity not governed by reason but moved by terror. 152
18. What ironic comparison does the author draw between Simon and the beast? As Simon lay dying on the beach,
a gust of wind blew the parachuted figure out to sea. The boys had not killed the beast but had killed Simon
who had made it possible for the beast to be swept away from the island.
19. How does the author use poetic language to describe the body of Simon as it is carried out to sea? For
example, the sea creatures that surround Simon are “moonbeam-bodied creatures” that have fiery eyes. His
should is described as sculpted marble. 153
Who said it?
20. "Do our dance! Come on! Dance!” Jack 151
21. "Let them go. I don't care." Ralph 148
22. "P'raps we ought to go too...I mean to make sure nothing happens" Piggy 148
Chapter 10
1.
What were Samneric doing in the beginning of the chapter? Collecting wood 155
2.
As Piggy and Ralph discuss the events of the night before, what does Ralph say he is frightened of? US 157
3.
What does Jack plan to steal from Ralph and Piggy? Who went with him? Fire Maurice & Roger 161
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
14
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
4.
Before they were attacked, what did Ralph "desperately pray?" beast would prefer littluns 166
5.
Who was Ralph fighting in the dark? Eric 168
6.
What did Jack take from the others? Piggy’s glasses 168
7.
What will Jack do if someone interferes with him? He says, “We will do our dance again.” Meaning the hunters
will kill the one who interferes – beat them like Wilfred 161
8.
What motivated Jack to punish Wilfred? He punished Wilfred to show that he had the power to do whatever he
wanted to do. HE knew the boys would be awed by his abuse of power. Robert doesn’t know why, only that he
tied him up.
Literary elements questions
10. How does Piggy show that he can’t understand what is happening? As Piggy and Ralph discuss what they will
do, Ralph laughs at the suggestion that he call an assembly. He has lost confidence in the effectiveness of the
democratic process on the island. Ralph wants to face up to what happened the night before. Piggy resolutely
denies the reality of the murder. He cannot find the words he needs to help him make sense of what happened.
11. “Hullo. Fancy meeting you, Ralph.” … “We left early.” How does the style of the passage differ from the style
of the last two paragraphs of Chapter 9? Abbreviated lines of dialogue, not only the interrupted sentences that
make up the speech of the twins, but also the incomplete sentences of Ralph and Piggy. Discuss the author’s
purpose in creating such a disjointed conversation, and point out that no one wants to expand any reference to
what took place the night before. Chapter 9 poetic, Chapter 10 conversational.
12. How would you define the boys’ use of the phrase “a proper chief” to describe Jack? Jack’s watchman
challenges Roger with the formula sentence: “Halt! Who goes there?” In his obedience to Jack, the watchman
asks the question in spite of the fact that he knows the answer. What makes Jack a satisfactory chief to the
boys is his abuse of power. The unprovoked punishment of Wilfred is characteristic of Jack’s abuse of power.
13. What has Roger done in the past to show that he is abusive? What are Roger’s possible thoughts about the
irresponsible exercise of authority as he sits on the rock in the sun. The author is giving the reader notice that
Roger will prove himself to be capable of capitalizing on irresponsible authority. Throw rocks
14. How does Jack use his power to manipulate the group? He promises a hunt that the boys enjoy, and he plays
on fear when he predicts that others will try to sneak in. He further manipulates the boys’ fear by bringing up
the possible return of the beast. When one of the boys tries to say that the tribe killed the beast the night
before, Jack denies the assertion. The he warns his followers to stay on the right side of the beast, which might
come at any moment. No contradictions – no personal ideas
15. Why is it ironic that the beast continues to terrorize the boys? Because Ralph and Piggy did not climb the
mountain to confront the beast as Simon did, they continue to be haunted by the fear of the beast. Beast blew
out to sea.
16. Where else in the book has the author described the boys’ actions in the same way that animal movements are
usually described? Look at the words the author uses to describe the fight in the shelter. They are usually used
to describe fighting animals. Jack first hunting – on all fours, sniffing, etc.
17. How has Piggy been abused each time someone wanted his glasses to start a fire? Ralph is pleased to discover
that the invaders did not take the conch. He still respects what the conch stands for. Ralph’s relief is shortlived, however, and interrupted by Piggy’s plaintive question. Beaten, abused verbally, glasses broken
18. What kind of vision besides physical vision is now limited for the two boys? Piggy must shift from one
eye to the other to see. Ralph, as he emerges from the jungle, seems to have suffered an injury to the eye,
which appears to be only a slit in his cheek. Both Piggy and Ralph are shown to have limited vision. 155
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
15
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
Who said it?
19. "That was murder." Ralph 156
20. "We don't want another night without fire." Ralph 162
21. "I thought they wanted the conch." Piggy 168
Chapter 11
1.
Who "protested out of the heart of civilization?" Samneric 178
2.
What happens to the conch and to Piggy? Conch broken, Piggy dies 181
3.
What are Jack’s plans for Ralph? He plans to hunt him down and kill him 181
4.
What course of action does Ralph take? Either flee of fight – not being able to defeat all hunters, he flees 181
5.
What name did Ralph call Jack that infuriated him so? Ralph calls Jack a thief 177
6.
Why did Ralph and his group feel threatened by their suspicion that Jack’s tribe would be painted? They knew
that Jack and the tribe, disguised by paint, would reject the values of civilized human beings and act like
savages.
Literary elements questions
7.
At what other points in the novel did Piggy blame Jack for all the problems on the island? Piggy again blames
Jack for all the trouble on the island. Blinded without his glasses, Piggy still remains blind to the evil that is in
each of the boys. He continues to believe that without people like Jack, life on the island would be idyllic.
8.
How does the atmosphere of this chapter contrast with the atmosphere at the beginning of the novel? Piggy
calls on Ralph to hold another assembly. Piggy again asserts his faith in democratic power and in the authority if
the elected leader. As the conch sounds, reference is made to the first assembly called on the island. When
conch is shattered – democracy is shattered
9.
What other indications has Ralph given to show the importance he places on the boy’s appearance? As Ralph
considers how the boys should appear, Samneric point out rightly that Jack’s tribe will have an advantage
because they will be painted. Because Ralph believes in the value of individuality and civilized behavior, he
insists that they go as they are because they aren’t savages.
10. What images give a picture-like quality to the scene, images that only the all-knowing narrator can describe?
Notice the shift in point of view from that of the boys to that of the omniscient narrator. As the group moves
across a vast empty beach, they see reminders of the dance of the night before. 173-174
11. In what other instances did Piggy see more than the other boys? Piggy’s fears are not unfounded. Piggy sees
clearly, even without his glasses, that he is vulnerable. He is dependent on Ralph and likely to be a target for
Jack and his tribe of savages.
12. What words does the author use to alert the reader to Piggy’s danger? The author gives many hints that
something terrible is going to happen to Piggy. Ralph don’t leave me
13. How has Jack been corrupted by power? Note the exhibition of power – the capture of Sam n Eric – has
emboldened the other members of Jack’s group.
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
16
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
14. What choices have the members of the tribe made? What does the author seem to be saying about the lack of
rules governing social order? Piggy still uses the symbol of democratic power. He confronts the group again by
posing the question they must face: “Which is better? …” 180
15. How does Roger’s action reflect the changes in his behavior from earlier in the novel? As Jack and Ralph
confront each other and as Piggy holds the conch, Roger uses the lever to hurl the great rock down on Piggy.
Earlier Roger had considered the implications of unbridled power. At one time, he had aimed his rocks so that
they would fall around the boys. Now he deliberately dislodges the rock, which crushes Piggy.
16. How does his death reflect the passage in Chapter 5, when Piggy’s death was foreshadowed? Notice the
description of Piggy’s death as the death of a pig. “…no time for a grunt,” “arms and legs twitched a bit, like a
pig’s after it has been killed.” p83 & p93
Who said it?
17. "After all we aren't savages really, and being rescued isn't a game.” Ralph 170
18. "Well, we won't be painted, because we aren't savages." Ralph 172
19. You're a beast and a swine and a bloody, bloody thief!" Ralph 179
20. "See? See? That's what you'll get! I meant that! There isn't a tribe for you anymore! The conch is gone-"
Jack 181
21. "Which is better, law and rescue, or hunting and breaking things up?" Piggy 180
Chapter 12
1.
Who was the "savage whose image refused to blend with that ancient picture of a boy in shorts and shirt?" Bill
183
2.
Why would "bathing [Ralph's] injuries have to wait?" how could you listen for naked feet if you are splashing in
the water 183
3.
Who had the "memory of a new and shameful loyalty?" Why? Samneric 187 had to join tribe
4.
Who sharpened a stick on both ends intending to use it on Ralph? Why? Roger 191 to do Ralph like the pig’s
head
5.
How did they try to get Ralph out of the thicket? (3 answers) rolling large rocks into it, smoke him out, when he
goes into the forest they continue to track him down like a pig. 193-194
6.
Ralph had 3 different strategies for 'escaping' the hunters. What were they? Climb a tree, break the line, hide
and let them pass 195-198
7.
What did Ralph find when he hid in the thicket? Found the skull of the Lord of the Flies 185
8.
What is Ralph’s reaction when he encounters the pig’s skull? “A sick fear and rage swept through him.” He hits
the skull with his fist and splits it open; it lies on the ground, still grinning at him. 185
9.
Driven by fear and hunger, Ralph manages to make contact with Samneric who are standing guard at Castle
Rock. Of what do they warn him? They warn him that the hunters are going to hunt him down tomorrow, and
they tell him that Roger has sharpened a stick at both ends.
10. What or who saves Ralph in the end? The British Naval officer who represents the adult, civilized world, a world
combining the military (hunters) and civilians (civilization).
Lord of the Flies Study Questions
17
Answer the questions. For each answer, indicate the page number in parentheses.
11. Why was Percival Wemys Madison unable to tell the officer his name and address? Percival had lost his sense of
identification with the past and so was unable to recite name and address. Ch 5 p. 86
12. Do you think the events of the novel could actually take place? Why or why not? Various. Some may refuse to
accept that people would be capable of such cruel behavior. Others may believe that the boys’ landing and
rescue are unlikely. Others may find the depiction of evil very realistic and thus believable.
Literary elements questions
13. What is the difference between the time that Jack is isolated from the group and this time when Ralph is the
isolated one? After the capture of Samneric and the death of Piggy, Ralph is alone. For the first time, Ralph runs
in fear. Jack’s ascendancy is so complete that he can hunt down the democratic power personified by Ralph.
Jack was never totally alone.
14. What advantages can you find in telling the final chapter from Ralph’s point of view? Despite the fact that Ralph
is now an outsider, he still represents the most reasonable view of order and civilization.
15. What earlier warnings did the novelist give that Ralph would be betrayed by those who had elected him the
chief? In spite of all that he has seen on the island, Ralph still cannot accept the fact that the boys are not
united in their desire to be rescued and to do whatever is necessary to accomplish that. He is overwhelmed by
the realization that Jack and Roger hate him enough to hunt him down and that Jack is telling the others that
Ralph is a threat.
16. Where in the story has the novelist given clues that Roger would become so abusive of power? Once Roger
threw rocks harmlessly around the boys. Now, just as he heaved a rock to kill Piggy, he is heaving boulders
onto the thicket where Ralph is hiding.
17. Why are the images of a hunted animal especially appropriate at this point in the story? The author uses images
to suggest that Ralph is a hunted animal. “launched himself like a cat”, “snarling”, “running with the swiftness
of fear through the undergrowth.”
18. What happens to Ralph when all the defenses are gone? Ralph has used methods in the past to check his fears.
The fire, the assemblies, and the routine order on the island were all calculated to check the fear that the boys
might never be rescued.
19. What was the origin of the smoke? What is the irony? Remember Ralph’s initial joy when he realized that there
were no grownups on the island. When the officer said: “Fun and games,” he could not have suspected how far
from the truth his assessment was. The officer landed their boat on the island because they saw smoke. Note
the irony that the smoke was not the smoke of a signal fire, but the smoke of a fire that might have destroyed
the island.
20. Does the story have a happy ending? What is going on in the world outside of the island? Although Ralph’s life
is saved by the arrival of the naval officers, he gives himself up to weeping. He is acknowledging the harsh
realities of life on the island. “Ralph wept for the loss of innocence, the darkness of men’s hearts…”
21. How has the power of the Lord of the Flies grown stronger since the head was placed on the stick?
Ralph, the former leader, is an outcast on the island. He admits to himself that Jack and the others will never
leave him alone. Once again, he reflects in the fact that there is no fire, no smoke, and no hope of rescue.
Hiding in the thicket, Ralph comes upon the skull, the Lord fo the Flies, now white and lifeless. Ralph breaks the
skull in fear and rage.
Who said it?
22. "Nobody killed, I hope? Any dead bodies?" naval officer 201 What does the officer symbolize? Return of
civilization
a. Serious or kidding?