what does page 38-39 mean in lord of the flies

Natasha willow

2 min read

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16-01-2025

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Pages 38-39 in William Golding's Lord of the Flies mark a pivotal moment, showcasing the escalating savagery and the boys' descent into primal instincts. This section centers on the crucial role of Piggy's spectacles, representing intellect, order, and civilization, and their impending loss. Understanding this passage is key to grasping the novel's central themes.

The Significance of Piggy's Spectacles

Piggy's spectacles are far more than just a visual aid; they're a symbol of reason and civilization in a world rapidly succumbing to chaos. They represent:

• Intellect and Rationality: Piggy's glasses allow him to see clearly, mirroring his ability to think logically and strategically. He uses them to help the boys start a fire, a critical survival tool.
• Order and Civilization: The spectacles are a tangible link to the structured world the boys left behind. Their destruction symbolizes the disintegration of order and the triumph of savagery.
• Piggy's Identity: The glasses are intrinsically tied to Piggy's identity. Without them, he's diminished, both literally and figuratively, losing his ability to contribute meaningfully to the group.

The Incident on Pages 38-39: A Turning Point

The events unfolding on pages 38-39 demonstrate the boys' increasing disregard for reason and cooperation. Jack, driven by his growing desire for power and hunting, aggressively asserts his dominance. He's no longer interested in cooperation; he's consumed by his primal instincts.

The specific events are:

• Jack's growing power and assertiveness. He pushes his authority, disregarding Piggy’s attempts at reasoned argument.
• The loss of the fire. This represents the failure of the boys' attempts at rescue and their regression into chaos. It's not a random event; it's a direct consequence of Jack's disregard for Piggy's intellect and the group's collaboration.
• The escalating tension and conflict. The scene foreshadows the further descent into savagery and violence that lies ahead.

This scene is not just about the loss of a pair of glasses; it's about the loss of hope, reason, and the potential for rescue. It marks a critical turning point in the novel, highlighting the fragility of civilization and the powerful allure of primal instincts.

Symbolism and Foreshadowing

The act of stealing Piggy's spectacles is a symbolic act of violence, not just against Piggy but against reason itself. The boys are actively choosing savagery over civilization.

This incident foreshadows:

• The eventual murder of Piggy. The theft of the glasses is a prelude to his brutal demise, highlighting the increasing disregard for human life.
• The complete breakdown of society. The theft marks the point of no return, where the boys fully embrace their primal instincts.
• The dominance of Jack's tribe. The loss of the fire, a symbol of hope and rescue, solidifies Jack’s power and his tribe's dominance.

Conclusion: A Microcosm of the Larger Narrative

Pages 38-39 are more than just a minor incident; they are a pivotal moment showcasing the core themes of Lord of the Flies. The loss of Piggy’s spectacles is a microcosm of the larger narrative, symbolizing the disintegration of order, reason, and ultimately, humanity itself. The incident on these pages serves as a stark reminder of the thin line between civilization and savagery, and the ease with which the latter can triumph. It's a crucial turning point, leading inevitably toward the tragic climax of the novel.