Lord Of The Flies, Chapter 1

Write an analysis of the opening chapter of Lord of the Flies. How effective is it at introducing the characters, concerns and language of the novel?

The first chapter of the novel, The Lord of the Flies, by William Golding is effective in establishing the characters, concerns and language for the remainder of the book, as well as introducing the main themes of the novel; that the problems in society are related to the sinful nature of man and good verses evil. In Golding's first chapter, the main characters are introduced, we see many ominous signs of what's to come through the authors choice of language and the beginning of rivalries, issues and concerns are portrayed which are to continue throughout the rest of the book. The microcosm on the Island is presented from an early stage, as well as themes that emerge and remain important throughout the novel.

Golding introduces the three main characters in the first chapter individually. Ralph, the main protagonist, is tall with fair hair and is introduced first. His attitude when first realising there are no grown-ups around is excitement, and he is looking forward to the prospect of being free of adults. In stark contrast, the second character to be introduced, Piggy, "was shorter than the fair boy and very fat". These two complete opposites are introduced into the situation very early on, to show the differences and varieties within society. Jack, the last main character to be introduced, is described by Golding as "tall, thin and bony…. his face was crumpled and freckled, and ugly without silliness." Jack is the only other character who is close in physical stature to Ralph, and is from the onset described as a leader.

Ralph, from the second page, seems to have taken con...

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...establishes the beginnings of the issues, but creating such characters that will undoubtedly cross paths, and cause conflicts. These underlying themes will remain important for the rest of the novel and will continue to grow as the book and story progresses.

In conclusion, we can see that the first chapter of the novel, The Lord of the Flies, by William Golding is effective in establishing the characters, concerns and language for the rest of the book. We have learnt about the main characters and started to see the development of their personalities. Through Golding's use of language we have picked up and interpreted many signs, and have learnt of concerns facing the boys stranded on the island. Golding has cleverly intertwined a couple of important themes into the beginning of the novel that shall continue to grow and develop throughout the remainder of the novel.