Jack Merridew Transformation

In the novel Lord of the Flies, one of the main characters Jack Merridew is said to represent the instinct of savagery, violence, the desire for authority and evil. In the beginning of the novel, Jack desires power and authority over all things. Jack also retained a sense of moral politeness and behavior that society instilled in him. But soon, Jack becomes obsessed with hunting and devotes himself to the task, becoming very atavistic or animal like. As the novel continues, Jack becomes more savage, strengthening his ability to lead the group. Jack’s thirst for authority and violence are closely connected as both characteristics allow him to feel powerful. By the end of the novel, Jack has discovered that the boys’ fear of the beast is useful in controlling their behavior. Over the course of the boys’ time on the island, Jack’s behavior has experienced a significant transformation due to lack of civilization, primitive acts and cruelty towards others.

One of the major developments in Jack’s behavior during his time on the island was loosing touch of the civilized world. In the beginning of the novel, Jack gives off the impression that he is willing to consent with the group before making any decisions. He does this in such ways as allowing the group of boys to elect either Ralph or himself as chief, and rationalizes with Ralph to settle any disputes. As Lord of the Flies continues, Jack creates difficulties for the boys, many of which would not be accepted in civilization. For example, in chapter 10 Jack attacks the hut Ralph and Piggy were sleeping in and steals Piggy’s glasses in order to kindle a fire on his side of the island. Golding writes “He was a chief now in truth; and he made… From his left hand dangled Piggy’s broken...

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...s to keep watch of it, so it wouldn’t go out. Jack also presents acts of cruelty in chapters 10 and 11 when Jack orders his savages to tie up and capture Wilfred, Sam and Eric so Jack can beat them assimilating irresponsible authority. Jack’s constant beatings and cruelty towards the other boys in the group has advanced throughout the novel, going from name calling and mocking to physically beating and killing.

In summation, Jack Merridew’s desire for authority, power and violence overcame his knowledge of civilization throughout William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies. Jack’s transformations were built off of his lack of civilization, primitive acts and ruthlessness towards others. Jack represented a dictatorship and evil on the island. Jack’s behavior changes were not for the better, but for the worst, bringing out the worst in him, as well as the other boys.