Lord of the flies: Context (See right hand side for graphics)

A books' context is just as important as the storyline itself as this is the source which is able to thoroughly explain the book and the storyline. The danger of the island is not seen at the beginning but instead all the stranded boys are more concerned about going home, this gradually changes as they are stolen into the depths of savagery.

A good quote that thoroughly shows the 'home base' or pink platforms' context can be found on page 17, "Here the beach was interrupted abruptly by the square motif of the landscape; a great platform of pink granite thrust up uncompromisingly through forest and terrace and sand and lagoon to make a raised jetty 4 feet high." Because of this quote, whenever the platform is mentioned the reader knows what it is.

The context of the masks is quite important as they are the representation of the evil held within the island. These masks make the wearer think that they are invincible and they are hidden from justice. " A rounded patch of sunlight fell on his face and a brightness appeared in the depths of the water. He looked in astonishment, no longer at himself but an awesome stranger. He spilt the water and leapt to his feet, laughing excitedly..........He began to dance and his laughter became a bloodthirsty snarl."

The context in which this novel is set is very grim, and represents a danger lurking within everyone in this "society." The book is also set in a very olden time, during the time of the second world war, and so represents the horror of people turning into monsters, turning against each other.

The idea of Jack controlling his minions is the idea of Hitler and his henchmen. The idea of Simon and how he fought to tell everyone the truth is a biblical allusion to Jesus Christ and how he died trying to tell the truth. The idea of Roger turning into "the Darkness" is also an allusion to Bible, as Roger represents Satan in this society," High overhead, Roger, with a sense of delirious abandonment, leaned all his weight on the lever.........The rock struck Piggy a glancing blow from chin to knee........His head opened and stuff came out and turned red." The entire Island represents the Garden Of Eden as there are rules, forbidden "fruits," and there are people who break the rules and get severely punished for it.

This entire book alludes to the atrocities of the time, and to the Bible, which makes it so interesting. This is why Golding was such an acclaimed author.