Topic Sentence: In William Golding’s novel “Lord of the Flies” symbolism is illustrated in Ralph and Jack, two main characters who battle for power; Ralph represents leadership, and Jack, in contrast, represents lust and greed. Transitional sentence: Ralph, a boy stranded on an island along with other boys who have to fend for themselves, is chosen to be the “Chief.” He illustrates just and fair leadership as he takes charge over the other boys. When the boys argue about whose leadership is best, Ralph says
Quotation: “ ‘Which is better, law and rescue, or hunting and breaking things up’ ” (180).
Analysis: Ralph demonstrates true leadership as he enforces law and order. Even through all the chaos, he still tries his hardest to portray the idea of order. He knows there is hope for them, but they need to work together and not sit back and wait for things to happen.
Transition: Jack, another boy on the island, who constantly fights for power is portrayed as violent and a barbarian. From the beginning, Jack had a huge desire for power. Jack had such a great lust he turned savage for the authority over the group. Jack’s savagery is depicted as he talks with Ralph hunting a pig. Quotation: “He tried to convey the compulsion to track down and kill, that was swallowing him up” (51).
Analysis: Jack portrays lust and greed as he turns to savagery to get what he wants. Instead of trying to accomplish what he wanted in a behaved, mature way, Jack had a tendency to act brutally. He was demanding and when things didn’t go his way he turned barbaric.
Conclusion: Leadership is symbolized by Ralph, a strong, committed leader. And Jack, with diversity, demonstrates man’s Lust and