The Important Events on William Golding's Life

Born in Cornwall, England

Sep 19, 1911

William Gerald Golding was born in Cornwall, England, on September 19, 1911.

Published his first literature piece

Jan 22, 1934

William published his first work, a book of poem, called Poems. The collection was largely overlooked by critics.

Graduation

May 21, 1935

William graduated from Brasenose College at Oxford University in English Literature.

Job

Aug 16, 1935

After graduating, William took a position teaching English and Philosophy at Bishop Wordsworth’s School in Salisbury.

Marriage

Sep 30, 1939

Golding married Ann Brookfield on 30 September 1939. They had two children, Judith and David.

Joins the Navy

Jun 28, 1940

Golding abandoned teaching and joined the Royal Navy to participate in World War II. He spent next 5 years of his life serving his nation and travelling on a boat. After his stint with the war, he went back to teaching.

End of WWII

Sep 2, 1945

WWII ended on September 2, 1945. After the war, Golding went back to teaching and writing.

Publishing of Lord of the Flies

Sep 17, 1954

In 1954, after 21 rejections, Golding published his first and most acclaimed novel, Lord of the Flies. The novel is what made William Golding famous.

1983 Nobel Prize for Literature

Oct 1, 1983

In 1983, at the age of 73, Golding was awarded the 1983 Nobel Prize for Literature for Lord of the Flies.

Knight

Jul 27, 1988

In 1988, William Golding was knighted by England's Queen Elizabeth II.

Death

Jun 19, 1993

On June 19, 1993, Golding died of a heart attack in Perranarworthal, Cornwall.