The Conflict of Man versus Man

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes the two competing characteristics of savagery and order found in the characters, Jack and Ralph in William Golding's novel "Lord of the Flies". It provides a narrative summary of the novel and examines the nature of conflict between society and survival instincts.

From the Paper:

"In Lord of the Flies, by William Golding, one of the main themes is man versus man. In the novel, there are two competing instincts found in every individual: one that values peace among all, and stresses the good of the group. The other side values supremacy over others, and the good of one's self over others. In the novel, these values are symbolized in the two main characters: Ralph, who represents order, and Jack, who stands for savagery. This is apparent in the novel, with the boys originally all forming one tribe, but eventually splitting up, and joining Jack Merridew's group of hunters. The only ones remaining from the original tribe are Ralph, the original leader, and Piggy, his follower. This conflict between the civilized impulses of man versus the savagery of man exists throughout the novel. In the end, the winner of this conflict is Ralph, for he is the only one who does not give in to the nature of inhumanity."

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