what was the biggest challenge simon faced? Give reasons
One of the biggest challenges that Simon faced in the novel "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding was maintaining his individuality and moral compass amidst the growing chaos and savagery on the island.
Firstly, Simon is initially portrayed as a kind and compassionate character, with a deep understanding of nature and a desire to help others. However, as the boys on the island descend into their primal instincts and form savage tribes, they ridicule and marginalize Simon for his sensitivity and unique perspective. Simon's individuality, characterized by his empathy and wisdom, becomes a challenge as he becomes an outsider in the brutal world that his peers have created.
Secondly, Simon experiences intense isolation and introspection. He often retreats to a hidden spot in the forest, seeking solace and contemplation away from the violent dynamics of the group. This isolation allows him to connect with the natural world and his own inner voice. Nevertheless, this withdrawal ultimately exacerbates his challenge, as it isolates him further from the other boys and their shared reality.
Furthermore, Simon faces the daunting challenge of understanding the true nature of the "beast" that the boys fear. While the others perceive the beast as a tangible creature, Simon realizes that it exists within themselves and represents their own capacity for evil. He confronts this truth in a hallucinatory encounter with the severed head of a pig, known as the Lord of the Flies. This encounter exposes the darkness within his own psyche and forces him to confront the darkness within others. Such insight and self-awareness only amplify his feelings of being different and increase the difficulty he faces in communicating this truth to the others.
Ultimately, Simon's biggest challenge is to assert his individuality and maintain his moral integrity in a violent and chaotic environment. His sensitivity, introspection, and understanding of the true nature of the "beast" set him apart from the others. These qualities make it difficult for him to belong within the rapidly deteriorating social structure of the boys. In the end, this challenge proves insurmountable, leading to tragic consequences for Simon.