1. Innocence: The younger boys initially approach their time on the island with a sense of adventure and excitement. They are playful, imaginative, and eager to explore the island's resources and possibilities. They engage in innocent games, build huts, and enjoy the freedom and independence they experience on the island.
2. Vulnerability: The younger boys are also portrayed as vulnerable and susceptible to the influence of their older counterparts. They tend to look up to the older boys, especially the charismatic Jack Merridew, and are easily swayed by their decisions and actions. This vulnerability makes them more susceptible to fear, panic, and irrational behaviors as the novel progresses.
3. Confusion and Bewilderment: The younger boys often struggle to understand the violent and savage events unfolding around them. They are confused by the breakdown of order, the emergence of conflicts between different groups, and the increasingly brutal behavior of some of the older boys. This confusion and bewilderment contribute to their sense of insecurity and vulnerability.
4. Loss of Innocence: As the novel progresses, the younger boys gradually lose their initial innocence and optimism. They become increasingly aware of the harsh realities of their situation, witness violence and cruelty, and experience fear and anxiety. This loss of innocence marks their transition from childhood to a more mature and somber understanding of the world.
5. Survival Instincts: Despite their vulnerability, the younger boys also display a strong instinct for survival. They adapt to the island environment, learn essential survival skills, and form alliances with other boys to protect themselves from threats. Their adaptability and resourcefulness demonstrate their inner resilience and determination to endure challenging circumstances.
Overall, the younger boys in "Lord of the Flies" represent the more vulnerable, innocent side of human nature that is confronted with the darkness and savagery that can emerge under extreme conditions. Their experiences and transformations highlight the complex interplay between innocence and experience, civilization and barbarism, and the challenges of maintaining order and humanity in the face of adversity.