Character Analysis — Ralph & Jack

Ralph and Jack are the two central characters in Lord of the Flies. They represent opposing forces — democracy versus dictatorship, civilisation versus savagery, reason versus instinct. Understanding their individual arcs and their conflict is essential for GCSE success.

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Ralph: The Democratic Leader

Ralph's Arc

  Fair-minded Leader → Struggling Chief → Isolated Outcast → Grief-stricken Survivor
     (Ch 1-2)            (Ch 3-5)           (Ch 8-11)            (Ch 12)

Stage 1: The Fair-minded Leader (Chapters 1–2)

Ralph is elected chief in a democratic vote. He is chosen because of his attractive appearance, his possession of the conch, and his calm authority:

"There was a stillness about Ralph as he sat that marked him out: there was his size, and attractive appearance; and most obscurely, yet most powerfully, there was the conch." (Ch 1)

He establishes rules:

• The conch grants the right to speak.
• A signal fire must be maintained for rescue.
• Shelters must be built.

Ralph represents democratic leadership — he consults others, respects the right to speak, and prioritises the group's long-term survival.

Stage 2: The Struggling Chief (Chapters 3–5)