The exploration of human nature is a common theme in William Golding's novel, Lord of the Flies. The book takes readers on a journey of self-discovery through the eyes of young boys who are stranded on an island without any form of adult supervision. As the story progresses, the boys begin to develop in unexpected ways, revealing their true nature. Golding argues that the defects of society can be traced back to the defects of human nature. The development of the boys on the island progressively moves from an attempt to be a "civilized" society to one that is more "savage" by nature. Under civilized conditions, people are expected to follow rules and adhere to social norms; this helps subdue primal urges such as violence, greed, and selfishness. …show more content…
Starting with Jacks first kill and later obsession with hunting pigs. “‘I cut the pig’s throat,’ said Jack, proudly, and yet twitched as he said it.” (Page 58). This is a point in the story where Jack hasn’t fully committed to being a savage, still clinging on to that little bit of humanity. He still wants rules and order but a loud part of himself is screaming to act primal, and as we see later in the story he listens to that loud voice. He consistently breaks the rules and insists he should be chief when the majority decide Ralph will lead. He even goes as far as to establish his own tribe and denounce Ralph’s leadership. “‘I’m not going to play any longer. Not with you.’...... ‘I’m not going to be a part of Ralph’s lot—’” (Page 113). Jack thinks being on this island is a game, he isn’t taking it seriously and it's putting the other boys’ lives in danger. People are starting to get hurt and Jack doesn’t seem to be phased by it, so much so that when Simon and Piggy are killed, he doesn’t bat an eye. “The rock struck Piggy a glancing blow from chin to knee; the conch exploded into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist.” (Page 163). The death of Piggy and the destruction of the conch shell represent the final breakdown of civilization on the island. The boys have completely become savage, and their behavior is no longer restrained by the rules of