William Golding

  • William Golding is born

    William Golding is born
    Golding is born in Cornwall, England. His father, Alex, was a science professor and his mother, Mildred, was a stay at home wife.
  • William Golding's first book is published

    William Golding's first book is published
    William Golding publishes his first book entitled "Poems". This book was not very well known until later in his career.
  • William Golding begins teaching

    William Golding begins teaching
    Golding began teaching English and Philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury. It is said that William Golding was very passionate about teaching.
  • World War II begins

    World War II began as a result of Adolf Hitler being elected as leader in Germany. Shortly after, he invaded Poland. Britain decided to come to Poland's aid.
  • William Golding is married

    William Golding marries Ann Brookfield. The couple remained married until Golding's death. They had two children together, David and Judith.
  • William Golding joins the Royal Navy

    In order to help in World War II, William Golding joined the Royal Navy. Golding worked on submarines and battleships for close to six years.
  • World War II ends

    Germany surrenders after many years of fighting. After the war ended, William Golding began teaching again. He also began writing.
  • Lord of the Flies is published

    Lord of the Flies is published
    William Golding's most acclaimed novel is published. This book focuses upon the struggle between good and evil.
  • Lord of the Flies movie adaption is released

    Lord of the Flies movie adaption is released
    The first movie adaption of the novel Lord of the Flies is released. This was only a year after Golding retired from teaching. It is stil a beloved movie.
  • William Golding is awarded the Nobel Prize for literature

    At the age of 73, Golding is awarded the Nobel Prize for literature. Golding received critical acclaim for his use of symbolism and political messages in his novels. The Nobel committee believed that his stories would last for decades.
  • William Golding is knighted by Queen Elizabeth II

    England's Queen Elizabeth II knighted William Golding. She believed that Golding's novels gave new messages that were important to all ages.
  • William Golding dies

    William Golding dies
    William Golding died of a heart attack in Cornwall, England. He was 81 years old. His last book "The Double Tongue" was published after he died.