William Golding’s Life

  • Birth

    His birth took place in Cornwall, England.
  • Attending Brasenose College

    Attended Brasnose College at Oxford for two years studying science following what his father wanted for him. In his third year he switched to studying literature following his inner passions.
  • Period: to

    Worked as an Educator

    Began teaching English and Philosophy in Salisbury at Bishop Wordsworth's School. (Timespan is exempted of the five years he spent in the Navy)
  • Enlisted in the Royal Navy

    Spent six years in the Navy where his active service included involvement in the sinking of the legendary German battleship Bismarck in 1940 and participating in the Normandy invasion.
  • Promoted to lieutenant

    He was promoted to lieutenant in command of a rocket ship.
  • First Publication

    "Lord of the Flies" was Golding's first published book, after having been rejected by 21 publishers. This granted him membership with the Royal Society of Literature and has been noted as his most admirable work.
  • Awarded the Commander of the British Empire

    Awarded for his extensive contribution to literature, Golding held the title of highest ranking of the Order of the British Empire.
  • Booker Prize

    His novel "Rites of Passage" won the Booker Prize in 1980, which is appointed annually to the book deemed as the best novel.
  • Nobel Prize for Literature

    Through the quality and innate power enveloping his books, Golding was awarded the highest level of recognition in literature.
  • Knighthood

    Golding was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II as a result of his contributions to literature.
  • Death

    His death took place in Cornwall, England. He died an impactful author in the literary world.