Lord of the Flies

Historical Context and Significance

«Lord of the Flies» is a novel by British author William Golding, first published in 1954. This allegorical work describes a group of boys stranded on an uninhabited island and their attempt to organize their own society, which ultimately descends into degradation and anarchy. «Lord of the Flies» explores themes of power, civil society versus savagery, the loss of innocence, and the inner essence of humanity. The novel was met with some skepticism upon its initial publication but has since gained significant recognition and status as a classic of Anglo-American literature. Critics regard it as a powerful metaphor for human nature and social conflicts. William Golding was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1983, partly due to the success of «Lord of the Flies», which played a significant role in the literary legacy of the 20th century and continues to be studied in school and university courses worldwide.