William Golding wrote, “seems like we ought to have a chief to decide things,” (22). This shows the importance of having an authority figure in difficult and dire situations. Golding utilizes the theme of power and control to exemplify ways that power can drastically alter individuals’ demeanor and personality. Many people may claim that a character’s ideals do not change when in a position of power; however, as shown in Lord of the Flies, that claim was proven false. Power and control can change people’s perspective and character.
Jack’s split from the group turned himself and his new-found followers into barbaric savages. Being stranded on the island brought forth his rudimentary nature. After transitioning to Jack’s tribe, Eric makes a comment to Ralph about Jack planning on hunting him the next day (Golding 188). Jack’s sudden turn from being human to being savage became apparent when he promises to kill a human being. After having power, Jack’s mindset was altered, causing him to not see the immoral in murder. When the boys first became stranded on the island, Jack obviously possessed an …show more content…
Everybody had jobs, and things ran smoothly; however, even Ralph began to change personally throughout the book. Ralph was more understanding, compassionate, and he included all of the boys in work on the island when they first arrived on the island. As they spent more time stranded, Ralph became controlling and overbearing. While searching for the beast, Ralph states, “I’m chief. I’ll go. Don’t argue,” (Golding 104). Ralph’s change in character shows how power can change a once inclusive and likable person, into a demanding and authoritative person. Ralph allowed the power to go to his head, and he became dominating, dividing force, instead of a uniting force. Once voted into power, Ralph’s personality began to change, and he abandoned the principles that made him a great
Jack’s split from the group turned himself and his new-found followers into barbaric savages. Being stranded on the island brought forth his rudimentary nature. After transitioning to Jack’s tribe, Eric makes a comment to Ralph about Jack planning on hunting him the next day (Golding 188). Jack’s sudden turn from being human to being savage became apparent when he promises to kill a human being. After having power, Jack’s mindset was altered, causing him to not see the immoral in murder. When the boys first became stranded on the island, Jack obviously possessed an …show more content…
Everybody had jobs, and things ran smoothly; however, even Ralph began to change personally throughout the book. Ralph was more understanding, compassionate, and he included all of the boys in work on the island when they first arrived on the island. As they spent more time stranded, Ralph became controlling and overbearing. While searching for the beast, Ralph states, “I’m chief. I’ll go. Don’t argue,” (Golding 104). Ralph’s change in character shows how power can change a once inclusive and likable person, into a demanding and authoritative person. Ralph allowed the power to go to his head, and he became dominating, dividing force, instead of a uniting force. Once voted into power, Ralph’s personality began to change, and he abandoned the principles that made him a great