Lord of the Flies Comparison of Ralph and Jack
Lord of the Flies - Comparison of Ralph and JackComparison of Ralph and Jack
In a group, there are always people who come out with better qualities as a leader than others. The strongest people however become the greater influences that others decide to follow. Sometimes though, the strongest person is not the best choice. In “Lord of the Flies,” Ralph, though not a strong person, demonstrates a better understanding of people giving himself better leadership qualities than Jack. Through the book, it is shown that Jack thinks he is better and should be the leader, though all he creates is mayhem.
Ralph shows useful human qualities as a leader by working towards making the boy’s society better. He knows that he needs to keep the boys refined, and, to do that, he desires stability and array. Ralph decides to create rules and a small simple government to accomplish keeping everything in control. He understands that most of the boys have to be given reverence and be treated as equals, predominantly Piggy. Ralph keeps in focus about trying to get them off the island. His leadership makes peace and order on the island, while Jack’s leadership creates pandemonium.
Under Jack’s rules, the group becomes uncivil wild beasts without discipline. Ralph wins the boys respect from his natural leadership abilities. By building shelter, he makes the boys’ needs complete. When he says to Jack, “They talk and scream. The littluns. Even some of the others.” (Golding 56) he is referring to why the boys need shelters, because they are afraid. Yet Jack fails to realize that the boys need security and stability. Ralph knows that the shelter will let the boys feel more secure and safe. This all makes a vivid picture of Ralph’s enhanced knowledge of people that shows another quality to being a better leader than Jack.
Ralph’s treatment of the boys demonstrates his understanding of how people should be treated. While Jack considers the boys inferior to himself, Ralph treats the boys as equals. Ralph’s greater leadership qualities are reflected in his constant defense of Piggy. Piggy is the weakest of the group and is therefore treated unfairly much of the time. When Jack hits Piggy and breaks his glasses, Ralph calls it “A dirty trick.” (Golding 78) Ralph’s compassion and ability to empathize with others thus illustrating his understanding of people; while at the same time demonstrates Jack’s disregard for other humans. Ralph’s “government” is a form of democracy which gives each boy equal rights and an ability to express themselves. Jack treats the boys, especially Piggy, as inferiors. When Jack gets meat from hunting, he gives everyone some except for Piggy. When Piggy asks for some, Jack says, “You...
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