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Savagery In Lord Of The Flies Essay

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The novel Lord of the Flies, written by William Golding features a recurring theme of savagery against civilization. But what exposes this theme are mainly the principle characters such as Ralph, Jack, and Piggy, which have an influence on the rest of the group in the story. And what is perceptible as the plot thickens, is that many peculiar aspects give us signs that savagery is manifesting into each one of the boys’ lives. These aspects are the increase in Ralph’s frustration and anguish with the group, Jack’s representation of savagery and the symbols which gain power to convey its manifestation. Firstly, in chapters four and five, Ralph experiences an increased frustration when the boys, who he is trying to lead in a civilized manner, …show more content…

He appears to be the main character to disrupt Ralph’s order and the one who displays the most signs of savagery. In chapter 4 we see that the title is called “Painted Faces and Long Hair” (60). This refers to how Jack and his hunters are embracing the more primitive and violent side of their nature, since they are continuously becoming savages. The long hair also refers to Ralph’s distaste for his bad hygiene and dirty clothes. It also shows how he is against savagery and has an urge to keep what little there is of savagery. Additionally, within the same chapter, when Jack has his face painted, he begins “to dance and his laughter [becomes] a bloodthirsty snarling” (66). The mask created by painting the face serves the main purpose of allowing Jack and the other boys to let the inner beast out. It also serves as something for the boys to hide behind. It is the same as someone who uses a plastic mask to hide their ‘true self’. When Jack paints his face, he feels free to let out his inner beast. The mask also removes a degree of humanity from Jack and rest of the boys. Humanity, or civility, is what keeps the beast inside of most people, according to

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