Dystopia in Lord of the Flies

Utopian/ Dystopian literature is a rapidly growing sub-genre of popular fiction. Authors often use utopias to convey a message about the world we live in today.

Dystopias are extremely flawed societies. In this genre, the setting is often a fallen society, usually occurring after a large scale war, or other horrific event, that caused chaos in the former world. In many stories this chaos gives rise to a totalitarian government that assumes absolute control. The flaws in this sort of a dystopia are center around oppression and restrictions on freedom by central authorities. Lord of the Flies has some of these characteristics, but the frightening aspects are as much in breakdown of society, as the overwhelming power of a central authority.

For more information and elements of this genre see our article: “Teaching Dystopia”.

Lord of the Flies as a Dystopia Example

No Independent Thought or Speech

Initially, the conch was used to keep order, maintain outbursts at meetings, and allow every person a chance to speak. As Jack becomes more powerful, he uses it to silence others and amplify his thoughts and ideas.

Shadow Government

In the story, Ralph was initially elected to be the leader. However, from the beginning it was Jack who truly had control through his dictatorial use of fear. He allowed Ralph to assume some power because the younger boys listened to him. However, by the end, Jack corrupted all the boys.

Lack of Free Will

Jack is ruthless with anyone who disagrees with him. He punishes disobedience harshly, and even tortures two young boys until they submit to his authority. This brutality is what allows Roger to kill Piggy.

Conformity

As Jack claimed more control, he would celebrate the coerced boys who joined the warrior camp by painting their faces like savages, just like his!

Perfect Society

In the beginning of the novel, Piggy and Ralph swim in a crystal blue lagoon, which appears to be an archetypal garden of Eden. There are no adults, no rules, a seemingly perfect place for young boys. As the story progresses, the beauty of the island is overshadowed by evil and chaos that overcomes the boys and order is lost permanently.

Citizens Ruled with Fear and Lies

Jack rules with fear. The idea that the boys believe that they are being stalked by an island monster helps him maintain this control. Their fear causes more chaos as Jack vows to kill the beast, a tactic that he uses gain more power by providing protection.

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard that shows the six elements of a dystopia in Lord of the Flies.

1. Click "Start Assignment".
2. Identify events or characteristics of the story that fit into the elements of a dystopia
3. Illustrate the examples for each event or characteristic.
4. Write a short description below each cell that specifically relates Lord of the Flies as a dystopia.
5. Save and submit the assignment.