S3 LOTF Essay for over holidays

Essay Question: How does characterisation of Ralph help us to explore the main theme: the cruelty of mankind?

Points from class discussion:

Para 1- 'At the beginning of the novel, Ralph seems to be driven towards retaining civilisation and helping the boys to be rescued although there are hints that he is not completely good.'

Linking sentence for second quote of PCQECQEL structure- 'Despite this, there are signs of cruelty within him- as he makes fun of Piggy- although we do see him regret this.'

Para 2: 'The cruelty of mankind is shown when Ralph succumbs to the temptation of hunting. He throws a spear to hit a pig and is excited by the prospect of hurting it/killing it.'

Para 3: 'The cruelty of mankind or the darkness that can exist in everyone is perhaps most clearly shown by all of the boys’ involvement in the death of Simon.'

Para 4: 'In the final chapters, we see that the extremes of situation have caused Ralph to become more violent and savage. He is described in animalistic terminology which reveals the darkness that exists in everyone.'