A STUDY OF HUMAN NATURE AND MORAL CONFLICT IN WILLIAM GOLDING'S LORD OF THE FLIES

This study examines the representation of human nature and moral conflict in William Golding's novel Lord of the Flies, one of the significant works of modern English literature. The research focuses on the conflict between civilization and savagery, the relationship between individual morality and collective behavior, and the influence of fear, power, and social pressure on human actions. Particular attention is given to the symbolic significance of the conch shell, the signal fire, Piggy's glasses, and the Lord of the Flies. The study also analyzes the characters of Ralph, Jack, Piggy, Simon, and Roger to explore their different attitudes toward leadership, responsibility, rationality, and violence. Through literary, philosophical, and psychological analysis, the research demonstrates how Golding questions the stability of civilization and examines the destructive potential of human behavior. The findings emphasize the importance of moral responsibility, empathy, rational thinking, and cooperation in maintaining social order. The study concludes that Lord of the Flies remains relevant to contemporary society because it explores universal questions concerning good and evil, human instincts, ethical choices, and the relationship between individuals and society.