Nancy B. answered • 11/30/20
Experienced HS English teacher specializing in writing
The conflict that escalates is a typical power struggle between two opposing ideals. Ralph tries to instill cooperation, harmony, and democracy among the boys. Jack, on the other hand, is power hungry and wants to rule by domination and fear. He resents Ralph's ability to lead and the boys' respect for him. While he has his own group of followers, the choir boys, Jack isn't satisfied. He wants the whole island, and all its occupants, under his control. Where Ralph wants to discuss, share, and build, Jack argues, takes what he wants, and dismantles anything that he sees benefitting Ralph. As the novel progresses, the boys become polar opposites and the gulf between them widens until there is no hope of reconciliation.
