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what happens in chapter 10 of lord of the flies

what happens in chapter 10 of lord of the flies

2 min read 05-02-2025
what happens in chapter 10 of lord of the flies

Chapter 10 of William Golding's Lord of the Flies marks a significant turning point in the boys' descent into savagery. The idyllic innocence of the earlier chapters is completely shattered, replaced by a brutal and terrifying reality. This chapter focuses on the tragic hunt for Piggy and the devastating consequences of unchecked primal instincts.

The Hunt for Piggy: A Descent into Violence

The chapter opens with the boys, now fully immersed in their tribal ways, engaged in a ritualistic dance. This isn't a playful dance; it's a savage, frenzied display that foreshadows the violence to come. Ralph, still clinging to the remnants of civilization, attempts to maintain some semblance of order. However, his authority is increasingly undermined by Jack's growing power and the boys' bloodlust.

The hunt itself is horrific. Piggy, the intellectual and moral voice of reason, becomes the target. He is not just hunted; he is deliberately and brutally targeted because he represents everything the savage boys reject – intellect, reason, and the remnants of their former lives. The description of the hunt is visceral and disturbing, highlighting the boys’ loss of humanity.

The Death of Piggy: A Symbolic Moment

Piggy's death is not a mere accident; it's a symbolic moment. His murder signifies the complete triumph of savagery over civilization. The shattering of his spectacles, a symbol of intellectual clarity and insight, underscores the irreversible loss of reason. Piggy's death also leaves Ralph utterly vulnerable, highlighting the fragility of his attempts to maintain order. The boys' actions demonstrate a horrifying lack of empathy, showcasing the destructive power of unchecked savagery.

The Aftermath: Fear and Isolation

Following Piggy's death, the chapter explores the consequences of this act of violence. Fear grips Ralph as he realizes the full extent of the boys' descent into savagery. He is now completely alone, his attempts at reason and order utterly rejected. The island, once a symbol of adventure and freedom, has become a dangerous and hostile place. The boys’ previously playful games have transformed into terrifying hunts, fueled by a bloodlust that knows no bounds.

The Significance of Chapter 10

Chapter 10 serves as a pivotal moment in the novel. It's not just a narrative turning point; it’s a symbolic representation of the fragility of civilization and the inherent darkness within humanity. The chapter’s disturbing events highlight the devastating consequences of unchecked primal instincts and the ease with which reason and morality can be cast aside when faced with fear and the allure of power. The chapter leaves the reader pondering the very nature of humanity and the potential for both good and evil within us all.

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