Lord of the Flies assignments
The Lord of the Flies is a complex novel which uses characterization and symbolism to outline
the descent of a group of schoolboys into the depths of savagery and inhumanity. As you read
think about these two assignments which you will complete towards the end of the unit.
ANALYTICAL ESSAY (100 POINTS)
Write a 5 paragraph essay on one of these topics:
Develop an explanation of why some critics feel that Golding's main themes are that
there is no hope for mankind, or that evil is an inborn trait of mankind.
Identify the most significant symbol in the novel and justify your choice. How is this
symbol used over the course of the novel? In what way is Lord of the Flies a novel about
power? About the power of symbols? About the power of a person to use symbols to control
Your essay should be typed, double spaced, and in MLA format. You should have a clear
thesis statement, at least six quotations to back up your points, and a conclusion tying up your
thoughts and connecting them to a larger idea.
CREATIVE ASSIGNMENT (20 POINTS EXTRA CREDIT)
In this assignment you have the chance to respond to the situation or ideas that the author
presents. You may do a written, oral, or pictorial presentation on one of the topics given below
or a topic of your own creation (it must be approved BEFORE you start the detailed work).
Topics and formats:
Write a diary from the point of view of one of the major characters or a "little 'un" (6, ½
page entries hand written in creative presentation).
Write about one of the following "what ifs": What if there had been both girls and boys
on the island? What if there had been one adult present? What if the characters were
all female? What if it happened to you? (2 pages typed, double spaced).
Collect a group of song lyrics that reflect the novel's theme(s) (8 songs with lyrics and a
CD, also 1 page typed about how each song relates to the novel).
Make a poster size collage of pictures with a 1 page typed explanation of how your
collage relates to the novel.
Both assignments are due Wednesday October 13th