Answer:
Throughout the novel, William Golding uses the "beast" as a symbol of the inherent evil and savagery that exists within each individual. Initially, the boys fear the beast as a tangible, physical creature that roams the island. However, as the story progresses, they begin to realize that the true beast lies within themselves. In their descent into savagery, they become the very thing they feared. The beast also represents the primitive instincts that are unleashed when societal constraints are removed. Ultimately, the beast serves as a warning of the dangers of unchecked human nature and the importance of maintaining civilization.
Step-by-step explanation: