The Savage Transformation: Jack and Civilization's Dark Side in 'Lord of the Flies'

The Role of Savagery and Civilization in 'Lord of the Flies'

In William Golding's Lord of the Flies, the protagonist Jack and his followers descend into savagery. This transformation is a primary focus of the novel, delving into the dark depths of human nature and questioning the balance between civilization and primitive instincts. This descent into savagery is multifaceted, driven by the loss of external control and the reinforcement of Jack's inherent violent tendencies.

Jack's Inner Beast and the Arrival of Savagery

From the beginning, Jack displays an inclination towards savagery, even referring to himself as the 'Lord of the Flies' which signifies his deep-seated morbid tendencies. As the novel progresses, the isolation of the island and the fading prospect of rescue create an environment where Jack can fully express these desires. The collapse of order on the island and the subsequent chaos further fuels Jack's rise to power, allowing him to accumulate a significant following that eventually surpasses Ralph's loyal tribe.

Indulging Natural Inclinations Without External Control

The novel illustrates that when external controls such as civilization and rule of law disappear, humans tend to indulge their natural inclinations. Jack's delusions of grandeur drive him to position himself as a chieftain and wield force and violence to maintain his authority. Much like the character Apocalypse in "Heart of Darkness," Jack's ascent is marked by a disregard for order and a embrace of chaos.

While figures like Piggy and Ralph advocate for peace and order, their efforts are often overshadowed by Jack’s followers who are entranced by the opportunity to indulge their primitive tendencies. This dynamic underscores the theme that behind the facade of civilization lies a capacity for great evil, which is often concealed until the constraints of societal norms are removed.

William Golding and His Literary Intentions

William Golding, the author of Lord of the Flies, was a complex and controversial figure. His own misanthropy and critiques of society are evident in his work. While Golding is a skilled narrator, his character observations and depiction of human nature are often better illustrated in fanfiction than in his own creations. Golding's portrayal of the novel is not merely a reflection of savagery beneath civilization, but a critique of civilization itself.

Golding intended for his work to act as a vehicle for his personal views, rather than a simple exploration of inherent human evil. The setting of the schoolyard, which is a closer reflection of Golding's own turbulent upbringing, adds a layer of psychological realism. This perspective reveals that the transformation of Jack and his followers is a deliberate narrative device meant to make a broader point about the fragility of social order and the inherent darkness within society.

Conclusion

The descent into savagery depicted in Lord of the Flies is a critical examination of the human condition. Jack and his followers' transformation serves as a poignant reminder of the potential for humanity to succumb to primal instincts in the absence of external control. William Golding's work remains a powerful critique of civilization, highlighting the subtle exploitation of societal flaws for personal gain. This exploration of savagery provides a profound insight into the complexities of human nature and the fragility of societal norms.