Jack

April 6, 2001

Jack is the rebel and recluse of the newly formed island tribe. While Ralph led the dutiful others, Jack stood on his own and went his own way. Jack is very determined, independent and a powerful leader. Although eventually his behavior became out of his control, under it all his traits where admirable. If he had been able to control himself a little better he would have been a wonderful leader for the group. Under the savage conditions, and sudden transition to lack of authority he chose behavior that was the most familiar to him in an exaggerated fashion.

Jack was determined. Although Ralph and the others were focused on the fire and being rescued, Jack thought it was more important to think about the immediate future and hunt for food. Despite their objections he stuck to his ideas and beliefs about the importance of his actions. So he went in search for food on his own even after the others gave up.

Jack was also independent. When others did not agree with him he did his own thing and branched off from the main group. His separate colony is an example of his independence. He created his own place where he could live by his own convictions when his opinions conflicted with the others. Even though he had never experienced anything like their situation, he was able to take matters into his own hands.

Jack was also a strong leader. When he decided to leave the original tribe he was able to take the majority with him. He found the right ways to manipulate the others into his state of mind and therefore put them under his control. He kept them at the right level of fear and reverence to stay obedient and loyal. He leads the boys against Ralph and the remainder of the group by playing on their baser instincts.

Although Jack represents evil, violence and the dark side of human nature, under the surface he might have been an effective leader to the boys. From the beginning Jack attempts to dominate the group rather than working with Ralph. The dictator in Jack quickly became dominant before his previous social conditioning could have effect. Jack had great potential for becoming a great leader, given rules and direction he would have grown to know boundaries and the consequences for himself instead of only for others. Beneath his savage exterior lay a child with a brilliant military mind who could have taken the boys far if he had only learned to accept certain realities.