Ralph's Influence In Lord Of The Flies

“The Word, that understandable and lawful Word, was slipping away.” (Golding 82). Ralph, the original leader of the boys in the Lord of The Flies, is initially a great leader and person. Ralph soon becomes pulled by his desires, a recurring theme of human nature seen frequently. Ralph experiences a man vs. societal conflict due to Jack’s influence but is resolved through the arrival of the long-awaited Naval officer.
Ralph’s inner conflict of the desire to rule and the desire to be a part of the hunting display both a man vs society and a man vs self-conflict. Ralph realizes at times that by hunting with Jack, he can provide safety needs, but also that he needs to rule the boys rather than Jack. As evident when, “Which is better- to have rules and agree, or to hunt and kill?” (Golding 180). It is evident the boys, as well as Ralph himself, are not sure whether they would rather have food or civilization. This affects Ralph as now he is pulled by hunger and the fact some would rather employ Jack’s rulings. Ralph does, however, take charge and say, “I’m chief… because you chose me. And we were going to keep the

Their difference lead to conflict, but initially, Ralph attempts to work together. Golding writes: “Ralph was full of fright and apprehension and pride. ‘I hit him! The spear stuck in-”’ (Golding 131). Ralph is proud of himself for killing the pig, and wants everyone to know. However, this causes problems later as now he is pulled to do so with Jack again. When Jack leaves the boys he takes away their physiological needs, “We hunt and feast and have fun. If you want to join my tribe come and see us…” (Golding 140). Because Jack has food for their boys to eat, many leave with him, causing Ralph to lose his following. This pains Raph and creates a desire in him to get his people back, and rule again. Even though Jack influences Ralph, he is resolved by a Naval