What paradox of the boys attitude toward the beast?

The paradox in the boys' attitude toward the beast is that while they fear and believe in its existence, they also struggle to accept the reality of its existence. They grApple with the idea of a tangible beast on the island, which represents the darkness within themselves and the external threat they face. This internal conflict between belief and disbelief fuels their fear and descent into savagery as they try to make sense of their situation.