Lord of the Flies Chapter 9

Study Notes

Simon's Actions

Simon, after recovering from his epilepsy, climbs to the mountaintop and discovers the body of the pilot entangled in the parachute.
He remains calm upon his discovery, showing no fear even when faced with the decomposed figure.
Simon's intention is to inform the other boys about the true nature of the "beast," reflecting his hope for communication despite their descent into savagery.

Signs of Jack's Power

Jack is depicted as sitting on a log, portraying himself almost as a deity or idol, commanding respect and authority.
He asserts dominance by giving orders for food and drink, demanding absolute loyalty from his followers in a ritualistic manner.
The atmosphere around Jack's leadership is one of worship and submission, showcasing his transformation from leader to tyrant.

Personification Example

The phrase "Authority sat on his shoulder and chattered in his ear" serves as a personification, illustrating the constant pressure and influence of leadership over Jack.

Appeal of Jack’s Life

The thrill of savagery and the absence of responsibility draw both the boys and Ralph to Jack's tribe, offering an escape from society's constraints.
"Our dance" symbolizes the ritualistic celebration of violence following the death of a pig, deepening their connection to primal instincts.

Chaos in the Forest

The boys, lost in their frenzy, misidentify Simon as the beast when he emerges from the forest.
Their collective hysteria leads to Simon's tragic murder, as they become an indistinguishable mob, emphasizing the theme of loss of individuality.
The brutal violence of the act reflects the overwhelming power of nature and primal instincts.

Fate of Simon's Body

Simon's body, caught in the parachute, is later released into the ocean by the wind, signifying his final departure from the boys.
As his body is carried out to sea, it serves as a haunting reminder of their brutal actions.

Chanting and Fear

The chant "Kill the beast! Cut his throat! Spill his blood! Do him in!" allows the boys to channel their fear into a collective action against a perceived threat.
In killing Simon, they confront their own fears, albeit momentarily, only to later realize the insignificance of what they have truly destroyed.

Description

Explore the pivotal events of Chapter 9 in 'Lord of the Flies'. This chapter delves into Simon's significant actions and the group's descent into savagery. Test your understanding of key themes and character decisions in this critical moment of the novel.