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Piggy And Jack In Lord Of The Flies Essay

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Neurologist Sigmund Freud claimed that humans have three parts to their personality: Id, Ego and Superego. The human mind is very complex, which is why these three components must work together to achieve harmony and contribute to a person’s overall behavior. William Golding’s Lord of The Flies includes characters that represent each of these parts. Jack’s behavior is most consistent with id, judging by his tempestuous presence. Since first being introduced in Lord of the Flies, Jack has proven himself to be a very chaotic and impulsive character, constantly clashing ideas with the people around him. Ralph and Piggy tend to emphasize getting rescued, whereas Jack has an overwhelming desire to hunt and behave like a complete animal. The id …show more content…

The id seeks self gratification and at times will do anything to achieve that, despite conflicting opinions from different people. “Why should choosing make any difference? Just giving orders that don't make any sense—” (Golding 91) is said by Jack during a heated conversation with Ralph, who previously claimed that he was leader because he was chosen. Ralph seems to be favored by most of the other people on the island and Jack is opposed to him being leader simply because he disagrees with Ralph’s decisions. Jack isn’t taking into account the fact that Ralph is a rational leader and simply thinks of himself, which is selfish and arrogant. Jack, much like the id, strives to take control and overpower those around him, taking any means necessary to achieve what he wants. “Ralph made a step forward and Jack smacked Piggy’s head.” (Golding 71). Jack’s violent encounter with Piggy was unnecessary and cruel, only proving that he is an impulsive and violent character who craves to be in control, getting upset when something doesn’t go his way. Ralph maintains that Jack is powerful and intimidating, frequently neglecting the rules in order to satisfy his own

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