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Birth
William Golding was born on September 19, 1911, in Saint Columb Minor, Cornwall, England. -
Published his first work
In 1934, the year before he graduated, he published his first work, a book of poetry titled "Poems". This collection was largely overlooked by critics. -
Began teaching
In 1935, Golding began teaching English and philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury. -
Marries Ann Brookfield
In 1939, Golding married Ann Brookfield. He lived with her near Falmouth, Cornwall. -
Joined the Royal Navy
William Golding temporarily abandoned his teaching job in 1940 to join the Royal Navy and fight in World War II. He spent a large part of six years on a boat, except for seven months where he assisted Lord Cherwell at the Naval Research Establishment. -
Published his first novel: The Lord of the Flies
After 21 rejections, Golding published his first and most acclaimed novel, The Lord of the Flies. This novel has been considered a classic since its publication. -
Resigned from teaching, LOTF film adaptation
In 1963, Golding resigned from teaching. In the same year, Peter Brook made a film adaptation of Goldings' acclaimed novel, The Lord of the Flies. -
Wins the 1983 Nobel Prize for Literature
When Golding was 73, he was awarded the 1983 Nobel Prize for Literature. This was two decades after the film adaptation, but 29 years after the books publication. -
Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II
In 1988, Golding was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. The honor of being knighted was Britain's way of saying 'thank you' to people who have made a notable contribution to public life. -
Death
On June 19, 1993, Golding died of a heart attack in Perranarworthal, Cornwall.
