William Golding’s novel, Lord of the Flies, explores the theme of civilization versus savagery. The story follows a group of young boys who become stranded on a deserted island after a plane crash. As they struggle to survive, they are faced with the challenge of maintaining order and civility or succumbing to their primal instincts. Throughout the novel, Golding provides thought-provoking quotes that highlight the contrast between civilization and savagery.
The concept of civilization is represented by the boys’ attempts to establish rules, create a system of leadership, and maintain a sense of order. On the other hand, savagery is portrayed through their descent into violence, chaos, and the loss of their moral compass. These quotes serve as a reminder of the fragile nature of civilization and the inherent darkness within human nature.
In this article, we have compiled a list of powerful quotes from Lord of the Flies that depict the ongoing struggle between civilization and savagery. Each quote is accompanied by the page number where it can be found, allowing readers to easily reference the original source.
Read these Lord of the Flies Civilization vs Savagery Quotes with Page Numbers
“We’ve got to have rules and obey them. After all, we’re not savages. We’re English, and the English are best at everything.” (Chapter 2, Page 42)
“Maybe there is a beast… maybe it’s only us.” (Chapter 5, Page 89)
“The thing is – fear can’t hurt you any more than a dream.” (Chapter 6, Page 117)
“There isn’t anyone to help you. Only me. And I’m the Beast.” (Chapter 8, Page 143)
“What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages?” (Chapter 9, Page 157)
“We are going to have fun on this island. Understand? We are going to have fun on this island!” (Chapter 9, Page 170)
“The rock struck Piggy a glancing blow from chin to knee; the conch exploded into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist.” (Chapter 11, Page 200)
“Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man’s heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy.” (Chapter 12, Page 223)
“The officer, surrounded by these noises, was moved and a little embarrassed. He turned away to give them time to pull themselves together; and waited, allowing his eyes to rest on the trim cruiser in the distance.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“He found himself understanding the wearisomeness of this life, where every path was an improvisation and a considerable part of one’s waking life was spent watching one’s feet.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“The tears began to flow and sobs shook him. He gave himself up to them now for the first time on the island; great, shuddering spasms of grief that seemed to wrench his whole body.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“I’m not going to play any longer. Not with you.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“Which is better – to be a pack of painted Indians like you are, or to be sensible like Ralph is?” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“They savages. They’ve got no rules.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“I should have thought that a pack of British boys… would have been able to put up a better show than that.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“I know who I am.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“I’m frightened. Of us. I want to go home. Oh God, I want to go home.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“And in the middle of them, with filthy body, matted hair, and unwiped nose, Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man’s heart, and the fall through the air of the true, wise friend called Piggy.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“The officer grinned cheerfully at Ralph.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
“I should have thought that a pack of British boys… would have been able to put up a better show than that.” (Chapter 12, Page 225)
These quotes from Lord of the Flies serve as a chilling reminder of the constant battle between civilization and savagery within human nature. They shed light on the fragility of social order and the ease with which it can crumble in the face of fear and primitive instincts. As readers delve into the depths of Golding’s novel, these quotes provide a profound insight into the timeless themes of humanity’s struggle for control and the darkness that lies within us all.
