Lord Of The Flies

2 Pages 524 Words

Civil War

The development of characters in a novel can lead to insight of the novel’s overall theme. William Golding uses Ralph and Jack to further explain the lessons and morals in the story. The rivalry that is created between Jack and Ralph portrays not only the difference in personalities but also the difference in the two societies on the island. Throughout the novel the Lord of the Flies it is apparent Ralph and Jack share similar qualities. However, the way Jack’s works concerns only himself and the way Ralph’s work benefits the group as a whole creates a struggle for power.
In the beginning of the novel both Jack and Ralph agree on some issues, such as implementing rules. “I agree with Ralph. We got to have rules and obey them.” (Jack Chapter 1) After hearing this quote one would think that Jack is helpful to the group, but as the story continues Jack’s true qualities begin to stand out. Jack takes the role of tending to the fire, but Jack’s newfound interest in hunting leads him to forget about the rescue. “Jack had to think for a moment before he could remember what rescue was. ‘Rescue? Yes, of course! All the same, I’d like to catch a pig first.’” (Jack Chapter 4)
As the story evolves Jack starts to distance himself from Ralph, and two groups with different opinions form. When Jack forgets about his fire tending duty a ship passes the island. Ralph confronts Jack on the passing ship issue and all Jack could say was, “You should have seen the blood!” (Jack Chapter 4) Jack’s savage qualities start to emerge which distances him from Ralph. At this point the parentless society is in its deteriorating stage.
The gap between the two individuals is created, but Ralph stays constant to his goal of being rescued. Both boys are tempted by the beast, but Jack resists and tries to keep the society civilized. When Ralph begins to hunt with Jack, he was very excited. “Ralph was ful...