Evaluate the Character of Ralph as the Protagonist of the novel “Lord of the Flies.”

Answer

Evaluate the character of Ralph as the protagonist of the novel “Lord of the Flies.” 

“Lord of the Flies” is the 1954 debut and most famous novel of British author William Golding (1911-1993). The plot concerns a group of British boys, ranging in age from 6 to 13, who are stranded on an uninhabited island. Their attempt to establish order and civilization falls apart and evil instincts come out.

Ralph, as the protagonist of William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” embodies the struggle between civilization and savagery. Ralph’s character development is central to the novel’s exploration of human nature and societal breakdown.

Leadership and Civilization: Ralph is the primary representative of order, civilization, and productive leadership. He is elected as the leader of the boys early in the novel. He tries to establish discipline. He decides to use the conch shell to call others, have meetings, and delegate tasks.

We can use this [conch shell] to call the others. Have a meeting. They’ll come when they hear us-

Ralph can be considered the protagonist because he prioritizes rescue. He prioritizes the maintenance of the signal fire that would rescue them. In chapter 2, Ralph says,

We’ve got to have special people for looking after the fire. Any day there may be a ship out there… and if we have a signal going they’ll come and take us off.

Ralph is the representation of hope and the boys’ connection to civilization. Ralph’s leadership style is democratic; he uses the conch shell to organize meetings and ensure everyone has a voice. This contrasts sharply with Jack’s authoritarian and chaotic rule.

Moral Integrity: Ralph demonstrates moral integrity and a sense of justice. He is appalled by the boys’ descent into savagery. He tries to maintain ethical standards. His discomfort with the boys’ violent actions, particularly the murders of Simon and Piggy, shows his internal struggle to uphold morality in the face of overwhelming barbarism.

Unlike some characters who fully succumb to their primal instincts, Ralph retains his awareness of right and wrong.

Human Vulnerability: Despite his leadership qualities, Ralph is not immune to fear and doubt. He experiences panic and a loss of confidence. The boys think of Simon as the Beast, lose all control, and kill Simon – even Ralph and Piggy are involved. These vulnerabilities make him a relatable and realistic character. Golding sketches his protagonist, Ralph, in such a way as to question the very roots of human nature – the evil human instincts.

Symbolism: Ralph often symbolizes the struggle to maintain order and rationality in the face of descending chaos. His efforts to build shelters, organize the group, and keep the signal fire burning are symbolic attempts to preserve hope.

Character Arc: Ralph’s character arc is one of disillusionment and loss of innocence. He starts with a naive belief in the goodness of order and civilization. However, he gradually learns about the dark and inherent savagery within humans. This transformation is a central aspect of Golding’s commentary on human nature. The boys’ attempt to establish order and civilization utterly fails. Ralph asks,

We did everything adults would do. What went wrong?

In conclusion, Ralph’s character in “Lord of the Flies” serves as a vehicle for exploring profound themes about human nature, civilization, and morality. His journey from an optimistic leader to a disillusioned survivor provides an examination of human nature at its most bare.