Justify the Title of the Novel Lord of the Flies.

Answer

Justify the title of the novel “Lord of the Flies”. [2020, 2016] ✪✪✪

William Golding (1911–1993), in his novel “Lord of the Flies” (1954), uses the title as a powerful symbol of evil and corruption in human nature. The title refers to the pig’s head on a stick, which becomes the “Lord of the Flies.” It represents the dark and savage side that exists within all humans. Golding uses this symbol to show that the real danger lies not outside but inside man himself—the beast of cruelty, fear, and moral decay.

Biblical and Symbolic Meaning: The title “Lord of the Flies” translates to “Beelzebub,” another name for the Devil in the Bible. This suggests that the novel is about the presence of evil in human hearts. The pig’s head covered with flies becomes a clear image of corruption and decay. When the head speaks to Simon, it says, 

“I’m part of you… I’m the Beast.” 

Golding’s message is that evil is not an outside force but an inseparable part of human nature itself. Thus, the title perfectly expresses the theme.

The Pig’s Head as a Symbol: The pig’s head, placed on a stick as an offering to the imaginary beast, becomes the physical “Lord of the Flies.” It is a gift to the beast, but in truth, it becomes the beast itself. The decaying head attracts flies. It shows how death gives birth to corruption. It represents moral sickness and the boys’ fall into savagery. The head tells Simon, 

“Fancy thinking the Beast was something you could hunt and kill!” 

Golding uses this shocking symbol to reveal man’s inner evil.

Simon’s Vision and Realization: Simon’s meeting with the Lord of the Flies gives the title its deepest meaning. He realizes that the beast is not an animal but human wickedness. The voice of the pig’s head says, 

“You knew,

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