Classic Novels: Lord of the Flies Flashcards

Study Notes

Lord of the Flies

Written by William Golding in 1954, set on a deserted island with schoolboys.
Explores themes of power struggles, friendship, and the loss of civilization.
Key characters:
- Ralph: Protagonist; symbolizes order and democracy.
- Jack: Antagonist; represents savagery and dictatorship.
Important symbols include:
- Conch shell as a symbol of authority and civilization.
- Simon as a Christ-like figure.
Central conflicts: protagonist vs. nature, protagonist vs. antagonist, and protagonist vs. self.

The Awakening

Authored by Kate Chopin in 1899, focuses on a married woman's struggle against societal norms.
The protagonist falls in love with another man and commits suicide after realizing both men hold oppressive views.
Represents the evolving role of women in the early 20th century.

The Pearl

Written by John Steinbeck, features characters such as Kino, Juana, and Coyotito.
Follows Kino’s quest to secure help for his son who is stung by a scorpion, leading to the discovery of an enormous pearl.
The pearl brings wealth but also greed and danger, ultimately resulting in tragedy with Coyotito's death.

Of Mice and Men

Published in 1937 by John Steinbeck, tells the story of George and Lennie's aspiration to own a ranch.
Explores themes of dreams, dignity, loneliness, and sacrifice.
Lennie's mental disability becomes a significant barrier to achieving their dream.

Grapes of Wrath

John Steinbeck's 1939 novel depicts a poor family's journey from the Dust Bowl to California during the Great Depression.
Highlights the struggles of migrant families in search of work and a better life.

Julius Caesar

Written by William Shakespeare; Caesar was made dictator for life in 45 BCE and assassinated in 44 BCE.
His assassination was driven by fear among the Senate regarding his growing power.

The Odyssey

Epic poem attributed to Homer, focusing on Odysseus's adventures returning home after the Trojan War.
Follows themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the hero's journey.

The Iliad

Another work by Homer, an epic poem set during the Trojan War.
Chronicles the conflict between King Agamemnon and the warrior Achilles over honor and pride.

A Tale of Two Cities

Written by Charles Dickens, set during the French Revolution.
Features Madame Defarge and contrasts the themes of innocence and evil in London and Paris.

Oliver Twist

Also by Charles Dickens, addresses issues of poverty and the mistreatment of abandoned children in industrial cities.

Great Expectations

Charles Dickens tells the story of Pip, an orphan who rises to wealth but learns about true friendship and humility.
Introduces Miss Havisham, a significant character in literature.

Moby Dick

Published by Herman Melville in 1851, centers on Captain Ahab's obsession with a giant whale.
Themes involve individual courage, pride, and the quest for revenge.

1984

A dystopian novel by George Orwell, published in 1949.
Depicts a totalitarian regime where individuality is obliterated by an oppressive power structure.

Animal Farm

A satirical novel by George Orwell published in 1945; portrays a group of animals revolting against human oppression.
Highlights the emergence of tyranny among the pigs, encapsulated by the phrase "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."

The Miracle Worker

A three-act play by William Gibson, based on Helen Keller's life and her relationship with her teacher, Annie Sullivan.

Description

Test your knowledge of William Golding's 'Lord of the Flies' with this set of flashcards. Explore key themes, characters, and symbolisms from the novel, while delving into the conflicts and dynamics among the boys on the deserted island. Perfect for literature enthusiasts and students alike!