In the novel Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, a dead parachutist is discovered by a group of boys stranded on a deserted island. This discovery is a pivotal moment in the story, as it serves as a catalyst for many of the events that come after. This article will explore how the parachutist was found, and the significance of this discovery.
Uncovering the Dead Parachutist
The dead parachutist is discovered by a group of boys who have been stranded on a deserted island. The boys, led by Ralph, are exploring the island when they come across a large, round object lying in a clearing, surrounded by a circle of trees. Upon closer inspection, they discover that it is the body of a dead parachutist, tangled in the parachute cords.
The boys are initially fascinated by the corpse, but then quickly become scared. They are further disturbed when they hear a loud noise, which they later discover to be a fighter plane. This sight and sound reminds them of the war that is happening in the outside world, and serves as a harsh reminder of the reality of their situation.
The Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the dead parachutist is significant for a number of reasons. Firstly, it serves as a reminder of the war that is going on in the outside world, and highlights the fragility of life. Secondly, it serves as a symbol of the boys’ own mortality, and makes them aware of their own vulnerability.
The discovery of the dead parachutist also serves as a catalyst for the events that follow. The boys become increasingly fearful of the dead body, and this fear leads to the formation of the “beast” that haunts them throughout the novel. Furthermore, the boys’ fear of the dead parachutist leads them to abandon Ralph’s leadership, and follow Jack instead. This results in a power struggle between Ralph and Jack, which ultimately leads to violence and chaos.
In conclusion, the discovery of the dead parachutist is a pivotal moment in the novel Lord of the Flies. It serves as a grim reminder of the war that is going on in the outside world, and highlights the fragility of life. Moreover, it serves as a catalyst for the events that follow, and ultimately leads to a power struggle between Ralph and Jack.