Jack Merridew's Intent In Lord Of The Flies

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Although sharing the same self-serving intent, Jack Merridew acts in his own, distinct way. Though he has not gone completely without opposition on the island, a clearer divide between his tribe and Ralph's remaining followers starts to form. In order to seize total control, he decides to make an example out of Piggy. Like Assef, he uses fear to control the people. However, unlike Assef, Jack rationalizes the murder as simply a way to show off his power. It clearly works, as soon even Samneric, the last of Ralph's followers, turn on him. In their final encounter on the island, Samneric apologize to Ralph, gibbering, “-they made us. They hurt us-” (Golding 188). Now alone, Ralph reflects on blame and who is really at fault. He remembers that,