All individuals have a desire for power, although how it is utilized determines the future. There are multiple different forms of power and many different ways one can obtain it. In William Golding 's Lord of the Flies, a group of young boys are stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. The boys are forced to fend for themselves as they soon learn there are no adults present. They quickly transform from being civilized human beings to savages. The boys are alone and afraid of what the future has in store. Golding’s use of powerful characters demonstrates how the fears of others can be used to manipulate and maintain authority. Jack, a monarchical leader in the novel, has a dominant personality from the start. He is the controlling leader of the choir boys and is naturally …show more content…
The boys’ fear of the beast gives Jack an opportunity to appear stronger. As the boys’ fear of the beast grows, they confide in Jack for protection and security. Jack knows he can use the beast to help control the boys. They want protection and know Jack will be able to offer this to them. Jack’s fearlessness of the beast makes him appear heroic. It strengthens his importance within the tribe and helps him gain overall power. Violence is often used by Jack to resignify his power. He punishes those who go against his authority and deliberately injures them to convey an authoritative message. After the death of Simon, one of the littluns named Robert talks to Roger regarding Jack. Robert discusses how he believes Jack is a “proper” chief and is going to take them hunting later on (Golding 159). Robert then mentions Jack’s recent harm towards one of the other tribe members. Here, readers see Jack’s power emerge as he abuses an innocent child. “He’s going to beat Wilfred’ [Robert says] ‘What for?’ [ask Roger]... ‘I don’t know. He didn’t say” (Golding 159). The boys understand that anyone who goes against Jack will receive a