Jack Flashcards
“We’ve got to have rules and obey them after all we’re not savages” chapter 2
This early proclamation about needing rules to avoid savagery is starkly contradicted by his later actions. Jacks embrace of violence, rebellion and the breakdown of order renders his statement almost comical in hindsight. He eventually rejects the concept of rules entirely, positioning himself as the leader of a tribe that rejects the notion of civility in favor of unchecked primal instincts. Jack’s emphasis on rules is not a genuine commitment to moral order but rather an assertion of control. Even though Jack expresses the need for rules, his view of them is ultimately self-serving—he wants to be the one who decides which rules should be followed.
Analyse quote “I’m chief. I’ll go. Don’t argue. “ (chapter 8)
The commanding tone exemplifies Jack’s authoritarian leadership style, in which he exerts control not through persuasion or consensus but through absolute dominance and intimidation. The phrase “I’ll go” implies that Jack is the one who makes decisions unilaterally, without considering the input of others, reflecting his rejection of democratic ideals that Ralph, the elected leader, initially tries to uphold. The phrase “Don’t argue” further reinforces Jack’s need for unquestioned obedience. The command suggests that dissent is not tolerated, positioning Jack as a ruler who is unwilling to entertain any form of opposition. Jack’s increasing disregard for rules and his desire to rule without debate are also significant in the context of the political climate in the years following the war. The rise of fascism and authoritarian regimes during this period serves as a backdrop for understanding Jack’s transformation into a leader who governs by force rather than consent.
Analyse quotation “kill the beast! Cut his throat! Spill his blood!
The chant functions almost like a ceremonial ritual, further illustrating how far the boys have fallen from the moral codes that once governed their actions. The rhythmic quality of the chant mirrors the collective energy of the group as they give in to the mob mentality, feeding off each other’s aggression, creating a sense of mob hysteria that drowns out any individual sense of right and wrong. In this scene, Jack’s leadership takes on a ruthless, almost hypnotic quality, as he leads the group in a mindless, collective frenzy. The boys no longer think or act as individuals but as part of a single, violent entity, driven by the primal need to hunt, kill, and dominate.
