Who is Percival in Lord of the Flies?
The Youngest and Smallest Child
Percival, a character in William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, is the youngest and smallest child among the group of boys stranded on a deserted island. His age and size make him a symbol of innocence and vulnerability in the face of the harsh realities of their situation.
The Symbol of Innocence
Percival represents the innocence of the boys when they first arrive on the island, before the breakdown of civilization and the loss of order to savagery. His presence serves as a reminder of the purity and naivety that the boys had before their isolation took its toll on their minds and actions.
A Mouse-Colored Appearance
Described as “mouse-colored and not very attractive even to his mother,” Percival’s physical appearance reflects his unremarkable and unassuming nature. This characterization adds to his portrayal as an average, ordinary child who becomes caught up in the chaos unfolding on the island.
Emotional Fragility
Throughout the course of the book, Percival is depicted as emotionally fragile, often breaking down in tears. His vulnerability and sensitivity highlight the immense psychological strain the boys face as they grapple with their dire circumstances and the loss of the comforts of civilization.
The Beast and Percival’s Claims
During a meeting discussing the existence of “the beast,” Percival claims that the beast emerges from the sea. His vivid imagination and fear contribute to his belief in the existence and threat posed by the beast. This demonstrates the influence of the boys’ fears and the power of their collective imagination.
A Survival Mantra
To cope with the overwhelming situation, Percival develops a survival mantra of repeatedly reciting his name and address. This repetitive ritual serves as a means of grounding himself and maintaining a sense of identity and connection to the outside world.
The Fading Identity
As the boys are eventually rescued, Percival’s trauma becomes evident. Despite his efforts to remember his name and address, he forgets them and can only stammer, “I’m, I’m…” This showcases the profound psychological impact of their time on the island, where their identities and sense of self become fragmented and distorted.
In conclusion, Percival’s character in Lord of the Flies embodies innocence and vulnerability. As the youngest and smallest child, he symbolizes the loss of civilization and the psychological effects of their isolation on the boys. Through his portrayal, William Golding explores the themes of the fragility of innocence and the disintegration of order in the face of adversity.
Sources:
- Study.com: Percival in Lord of the Flies: Character Analysis & Quotes
- Lord of the Flies Wiki: Percival Wemys Maddison
- CliffsNotes: Character List – Lord of the Flies
FAQs
Who is Percival in Lord of the Flies?
Percival is a character in William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies. He is the youngest and smallest child among the group of boys stranded on a deserted island.
What does Percival symbolize in Lord of the Flies?
Percival symbolizes the innocence and vulnerability of the boys when they first arrive on the island. He represents the purity and naivety that is gradually lost as the boys descend into chaos and savagery.
How is Percival described in the book?
Percival is described as “mouse-colored and not very attractive even to his mother.” This physical description reflects his unremarkable and unassuming nature.
Does Percival cry in Lord of the Flies?
Yes, Percival cries several times over the course of the book. His emotional fragility highlights the immense psychological strain the boys experience on the island.
What does Percival claim about the beast?
During a meeting discussing the existence of “the beast,” Percival claims that the beast comes out of the sea. His vivid imagination and fear contribute to his belief in the threat posed by the beast.
What is Percival’s survival mantra?
Percival’s survival mantra is to repeatedly recite his name and address. This ritual serves as a way for him to ground himself and maintain a sense of identity and connection to the outside world.
What happens to Percival when he is rescued?
When Percival is rescued, he has forgotten his name and address. He can only stammer, “I’m, I’m…” This showcases the profound psychological impact of their time on the island, where their identities become fragmented and distorted.
What themes does Percival’s character explore in Lord of the Flies?
Percival’s character explores themes of innocence, vulnerability, the loss of civilization, and the psychological effects of isolation. His portrayal reflects the fragility of innocence and the disintegration of order in the face of adversity.