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Jasmine
18/09/2025
English Literature
Lord of the Flies Quotations
3,369
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18 Sept 2025
•
Key Quotes from Lord of the Flies About Piggy, Ralph, and Jack
Jasmine
@diverjas
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Symbolism and Themes
This page explores the rich symbolism and major themes in Lord of the Flies, providing insight into William Golding's critique of human nature and society.
The island itself serves as a microcosm of the larger world, with its beauty masking the darkness that unfolds upon it.
Quote: "The lagoon was still as a mountain lake - blue of all shades and shadowy green and purple."
This description contrasts sharply with the violence and chaos that later engulf the island.
The "beast" is a central symbol representing the boys' fears and the innate evil within humanity.
Quote: "I'm frightened. Of us. I want to go home."
This admission reveals the growing realization that the true threat comes from within the group itself.
The face paint worn by Jack and his hunters symbolizes their rejection of civilized behavior and embrace of savage instincts.
Vocabulary: Demoniac - possessed by or characteristic of an evil spirit.
Quote: "Demoniac figures with faces of white and red and green rushed out howling."
This vivid description emphasizes the terrifying transformation of the boys into unrecognizable savages.
The conch shell, initially a symbol of order and democracy, loses its power as the boys descend into chaos.
Quote: "Exploded and burst into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist."
The destruction of the conch shell marks the final breakdown of civilized society on the island.
Human Nature and the Loss of Innocence
This final section delves into the novel's exploration of human nature and the gradual loss of innocence experienced by the boys on the island.
Lord of the Flies presents a pessimistic view of human nature, suggesting that without the constraints of civilization, people will inevitably revert to savagery. The boys' initial attempts to create an orderly society quickly give way to violence and chaos.
Highlight: The title "Lord of the Flies" is a literal translation of Beelzebub, a name for the devil, emphasizing the novel's themes of evil and corruption.
The loss of innocence is a central theme, as the boys are forced to confront the darkness within themselves and their peers. Ralph's final weeping "for the end of innocence" encapsulates this tragic transformation.
Quote: "Ralph remained unmistakably Ralph."
This statement, despite the horrors Ralph has witnessed and participated in, suggests that some essence of his true self has survived, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
The relationship between Jack and Ralph symbolizes the conflict between savagery and civilization. Their initial cooperation gives way to bitter rivalry and eventually open hostility.
Quote: "They looked at each other, baffled, in love and hate."
This complex description of Jack and Ralph's relationship highlights the fine line between civilization and savagery, and the internal struggle each boy faces.
Lord of the Flies ultimately leaves readers with profound questions about the nature of evil, the fragility of social order, and the potential for darkness that exists within all humans.
Page 3: Thematic Development
The third page explores the central themes of human nature, evil, and the conflict between civilization and savagery. Violence emerges as a dominant force in the narrative.
Quote: "Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man's heart"
Highlight: The progression of violence from mock hunting to real brutality shows the boys' descent into savagery.
Character Descriptions and Key Quotes
This section provides an overview of the main characters in Lord of the Flies and notable quotes that reveal their personalities and roles in the story.
Ralph, the protagonist, is initially described as "the fair boy" with "a mildness about his mouth and eyes that proclaimed no devil." As the elected leader, he strives to maintain order and civilization on the island.
Quote: "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 wise, true friend named Piggy."
This poignant quote from the end of the novel encapsulates Ralph's loss of innocence and the tragedy that unfolds on the island.
Jack, Ralph's main antagonist, is introduced as the leader of a choir group. He quickly embraces the savage lifestyle on the island, becoming obsessed with hunting.
Quote: "The compulsion to track down and kill was swallowing him up."
This quote illustrates Jack's descent into savagery and his growing bloodlust.
Piggy, Ralph's loyal friend and voice of reason, is described as "plump, caught and scratched by thorns." Despite his intelligence, he is often mocked by the other boys.
Highlight: Piggy's glasses become a crucial symbol in the novel, representing both intellect and the boys' tenuous connection to civilization.
Simon, the most insightful of the boys, is portrayed as a Christ-like figure. He has a deep understanding of the island and the boys' situation.
Quote: "Maybe it's only us."
This quote reflects Simon's realization that the "beast" the boys fear is actually the darkness within themselves.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
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This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Key Quotes from Lord of the Flies About Piggy, Ralph, and Jack
Jasmine
@diverjas
A haunting exploration of human nature and societal breakdown through the lens of stranded schoolboys, featuring profound character development and rich symbolism.
• The narrative tracks the deterioration from civilized behavior to savagery, particularly through the characters of Ralph, Jack,... Show more
Symbolism and Themes
This page explores the rich symbolism and major themes in Lord of the Flies, providing insight into William Golding's critique of human nature and society.
The island itself serves as a microcosm of the larger world, with its beauty masking the darkness that unfolds upon it.
Quote: "The lagoon was still as a mountain lake - blue of all shades and shadowy green and purple."
This description contrasts sharply with the violence and chaos that later engulf the island.
The "beast" is a central symbol representing the boys' fears and the innate evil within humanity.
Quote: "I'm frightened. Of us. I want to go home."
This admission reveals the growing realization that the true threat comes from within the group itself.
The face paint worn by Jack and his hunters symbolizes their rejection of civilized behavior and embrace of savage instincts.
Vocabulary: Demoniac - possessed by or characteristic of an evil spirit.
Quote: "Demoniac figures with faces of white and red and green rushed out howling."
This vivid description emphasizes the terrifying transformation of the boys into unrecognizable savages.
The conch shell, initially a symbol of order and democracy, loses its power as the boys descend into chaos.
Quote: "Exploded and burst into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist."
The destruction of the conch shell marks the final breakdown of civilized society on the island.
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Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Human Nature and the Loss of Innocence
This final section delves into the novel's exploration of human nature and the gradual loss of innocence experienced by the boys on the island.
Lord of the Flies presents a pessimistic view of human nature, suggesting that without the constraints of civilization, people will inevitably revert to savagery. The boys' initial attempts to create an orderly society quickly give way to violence and chaos.
Highlight: The title "Lord of the Flies" is a literal translation of Beelzebub, a name for the devil, emphasizing the novel's themes of evil and corruption.
The loss of innocence is a central theme, as the boys are forced to confront the darkness within themselves and their peers. Ralph's final weeping "for the end of innocence" encapsulates this tragic transformation.
Quote: "Ralph remained unmistakably Ralph."
This statement, despite the horrors Ralph has witnessed and participated in, suggests that some essence of his true self has survived, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.
The relationship between Jack and Ralph symbolizes the conflict between savagery and civilization. Their initial cooperation gives way to bitter rivalry and eventually open hostility.
Quote: "They looked at each other, baffled, in love and hate."
This complex description of Jack and Ralph's relationship highlights the fine line between civilization and savagery, and the internal struggle each boy faces.
Lord of the Flies ultimately leaves readers with profound questions about the nature of evil, the fragility of social order, and the potential for darkness that exists within all humans.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Page 3: Thematic Development
The third page explores the central themes of human nature, evil, and the conflict between civilization and savagery. Violence emerges as a dominant force in the narrative.
Quote: "Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man's heart"
Highlight: The progression of violence from mock hunting to real brutality shows the boys' descent into savagery.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Character Descriptions and Key Quotes
This section provides an overview of the main characters in Lord of the Flies and notable quotes that reveal their personalities and roles in the story.
Ralph, the protagonist, is initially described as "the fair boy" with "a mildness about his mouth and eyes that proclaimed no devil." As the elected leader, he strives to maintain order and civilization on the island.
Quote: "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 wise, true friend named Piggy."
This poignant quote from the end of the novel encapsulates Ralph's loss of innocence and the tragedy that unfolds on the island.
Jack, Ralph's main antagonist, is introduced as the leader of a choir group. He quickly embraces the savage lifestyle on the island, becoming obsessed with hunting.
Quote: "The compulsion to track down and kill was swallowing him up."
This quote illustrates Jack's descent into savagery and his growing bloodlust.
Piggy, Ralph's loyal friend and voice of reason, is described as "plump, caught and scratched by thorns." Despite his intelligence, he is often mocked by the other boys.
Highlight: Piggy's glasses become a crucial symbol in the novel, representing both intellect and the boys' tenuous connection to civilization.
Simon, the most insightful of the boys, is portrayed as a Christ-like figure. He has a deep understanding of the island and the boys' situation.
Quote: "Maybe it's only us."
This quote reflects Simon's realization that the "beast" the boys fear is actually the darkness within themselves.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user