Lord of The Flies: Exploring The Duality of Civilization and Savagery

From the moment William Golding's novel, Lord of the Flies, was published in 1954, it has captivated readers with its exploration of the inherent struggle between civilization and savagery. Set on a deserted island, the story follows a group of young boys who are forced to confront their own primal instincts as they attempt to establish a functioning society. Throughout the novel, Golding utilizes various quotes to highlight the dichotomy between civilization and savagery, ultimately revealing the fragility of human nature. This essay will analyze several key quotes from Lord of the Flies that exemplify this theme, shedding light on the destructive potential that lies within all individuals.

One of the most prominent quotes in Lord of the Flies that portrays the loss of civilization is when Ralph, the novel's protagonist, says, "We've got to have rules and obey them. After all, we're not savages. We're English, and the English are best at everything" (Golding 42). This statement reflects Ralph's belief in the power of order and structure, and his conviction that their English upbringing will enable them to maintain civilized behavior. However, as the boys gradually descend into savagery, this quote serves to highlight the irony of their situation. Despite their initial adherence to rules and their cultural background, they succumb to their primal instincts, ultimately proving that civilization is a fragile construct that can easily crumble.

Another quote that exemplifies the lure of savagery in Lord of the Flies is when Jack, the antagonist, exclaims, "Bollocks to the rules! We're strong, we hunt! If there's a beast, we'll hunt it down! We'll close in and beat and beat and beat" (Golding 91). This statement showcases Jack's growing obsession with hunting and violence, which ultimately leads him to abandon the principles of civilization. The use of expletives in this quote emphasizes Jack's disregard for rules and his eagerness to embrace savagery. By contrasting Jack's words with Ralph's earlier belief in the importance of rules, Golding highlights the inherent tension between civilization and savagery that exists within each individual.

A pivotal quote that encapsulates the descent into darkness in Lord of the Flies is when Simon, one of the more introspective characters, realizes, "Maybe there is a beast… maybe it's only us" (Golding 89). This profound insight highlights the central theme of the novel: that the true beast resides within human nature. As the boys' fear and paranoia intensify, they project their inner darkness onto the imagined beast, blurring the line between reality and imagination. This quote serves as a sobering reminder that every individual has the capacity for savagery, and that the constraints of civilization are easily discarded in the face of fear and desperation.

In conclusion, Lord of the Flies masterfully explores the duality of civilization and savagery through its evocative quotes. Ralph's belief in the power of rules, Jack's allure towards savagery, and Simon's realization of the beast within all serve to highlight the fragile nature of civilization and the inherent darkness that lies within individuals. Golding's novel serves as a chilling reminder that when removed from the constraints of society, even the most civilized individuals can succumb to their primal instincts. Ultimately, Lord of the Flies raises profound questions about the true nature of humanity and the precarious balance between civilization and savagery.

Bibliography:

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Penguin Books, 1954.