Essay | Symbolism and Change in Lord of the Flies

Ralph is an English schoolboy who likes adventure and action.  In the beginning of the book he realizes that he is away from all adults.  This is at first very exciting, but Ralph longs for rescue.  This is one of the reasons that he insists on keeping the fire lit.  Ralph becomes the leader of the group of boys on the island.  He stands for order and common sense, and tries to maintain civilization. For example, he despised his hair growing long and that he could not get clean.  He could not even brush his teeth.  His need is to build huts instead of hunting with Jack.    

Ralph also is partially savage.  For example, he actually beats a boy during a hunt.  When Simon is killed we do not know if Ralph had a part in the killing.  It seems that even the most civilized person has...
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