Lord of the Flies

by William Golding  |  Grades 8-10  |  Lexile 770

William Golding's classic novel of primitive savagery and survival is one of the most vividly realized and riveting works in modern fiction.Published in 1954, it has gained a unique status in the pantheon of 20th Century literature. A cult favorite among both students and literary critics, the novel has been called a parable, an allegory, a myth, even a vision of the apocalypse.

The tale begins after a plane wreck deposits a group of English school boys, aged six to twelve on an isolated tropical island. Their struggle to survive and impose order quickly evolves from a battle against nature into a battle against their own primitive instincts. Golding's portrayal of the collapse of social order into chaos draws the fine line between innocence and savagery.

Available Teacher Guides, Novel Units, Lesson Plans, and Activities for Lord of the Flies: