Fear In Lord Of The Flies And Religion Essay

"Religion is based primarily and mainly upon fear. It is partly the terror of the unknown and partly the wish to feel that you have a kind of elder brother who will stand by you in all your troubles and disputes. Fear is the basis of the whole thing – fear of the mysterious, fear of defeat, fear of death.” asserted British philosopher, Bertrand Russell, in his 1927 lecture, ‘Why I Am Not A Christian’. Essentially, Russell suggests that fear is the origin of religion. The same theory of fear-based religion is evident in William Golding’s Lord of the Flies. In the classic novel, a group of British boys finds themselves on an exotic island without resources or adults; forcing them to organize civilization with only their brains and senses. On
In Chapter 6, when planning their beast-hunting exploits, Jack suggests, “‘When we kill we’ll leave some of the kill for it. Then it won’t bother us, maybe.’“ (pg 133, ) “ This sort of behavior indicates an impulse to fulfill the desires of the divine beast; an example of religious obedience. Typically, this impulse is driven by fear. Religious adherents typically obey their God’s word out of fear of their omniscient God’s unknown capacities. To appease the beast safe the pig’s head; “ ‘This head is for the beast. It’s a gift.’ The silence accepted the gift and awed them.” (Golding, 137). The pattern of obedience to the beast is fueled by superstition after killing Simon—who the boys mistakenly presumed was the beast. “ ‘I expect the beast disguised itself’ ‘Perhaps,’ said the chief. A theological speculation presented itself. ‘We’d better keep on the right side of him, anyhow. You can’t tell what he might do.” (Golding, 161). Paranoia and superstition, have completely overwhelmed the boy's choices; they are uncertain of how the beast may manifest itself or react to their actions. To conclude, fear of divine capabilities force many religious believers to strictly adhere to their God’s word and