In William Golding's Lord of the Flies, the theme of civilization versus savagery is present throughout the novel. The story follows a group of young boys who are stranded on an uninhabited island after their plane crashes. At first, the boys attempt to create a civilized society by establishing rules and holding meetings. However, as time goes on, their primal instincts and desire for power begin to take over, leading to the eventual breakdown of their society and the emergence of savagery.
The characters in the novel represent different aspects of civilization and savagery. Ralph, the protagonist, represents the civilized side, as he values order, democracy, and the importance of rules. He is determined to maintain a sense of order on the island and tries to keep the other boys from descending into chaos. In contrast, Jack, the antagonist, represents the savage side, as he is driven by his desire for power and control. He is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals, even if it means resorting to violence and manipulation.
The conflict between Ralph and Jack is a microcosm of the larger theme of civilization versus savagery in the novel. Ralph represents the values of civilization, such as democracy and order, while Jack represents the primal instincts of savagery, such as violence and the desire for power. The boys' struggle to maintain order on the island is ultimately a battle between these two opposing forces.
Throughout the novel, Golding illustrates the thin line between civilization and savagery. The boys start off by trying to create a civilized society, but as they spend more time on the island, they begin to lose their sense of morality and order. The conch shell, which symbolizes order and democracy, is eventually destroyed, symbolizing the breakdown of their society. The boys also begin to engage in violent behavior, such as hunting and torturing animals, as they give into their primal instincts.
The ultimate turning point in the novel comes when the boys kill Simon, a member of their group who represents goodness and innocence. This act of violence marks the complete breakdown of their society and the triumph of savagery over civilization.
In conclusion, the theme of civilization versus savagery in Lord of the Flies highlights the thin line between these two opposing forces and the dangers of giving into primal instincts. The story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of maintaining order and morality in society.
