Hamlet And Lord Of The Flies Critical Lens Essay

Words: 624
Pages: 3

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” A quote said but none other than that of Martin Luther King Jr. is one quote that separates the good from the great. An interpretation of the quote may better establish criteria for analysis of other works of literature. Lord of the Flies by William Golding is one work of literature in which using this quote as a critical lens can be beneficial in the interpretation the quote. Another work of literature which can better the opinion of the interpretation of the quote is Hamlet by William Shakespeare. By interpreting the quote and creating an opinion, both literature works Lord of the flies and …show more content…
With attention to the theme of the novel being the savagery amongst us all the ultimate measure of man is put to the test. "We've got to have rules and obey them. After all, we're not savages. We're English, and the English are best at everything." (Ch.2). In the commencement of Golding’s novel, savagery does not show in the children although the challenging circumstances allows it to surface within the characters. In regards to the literary element of setting, the boys are accustom to civilization and order but when that fails they do too. Aren't there any grownups at all?" (Ch.1 pg.2) Without grownups and order the boys are placed in a difficult situation and in doing so they fail showing. Furthermore, the characterization of Ralph shows his ultimate measure as he strives under the controversy and continues to lead to the best of his abilities. “We need an assembly. Not for fun. Not for laughing and falling off the log not for making jokes, or for- cleverness. But to put things straight.”(79). Ralph grows as the novel progresses and his greatness shows as his support beam does not break under the weight of the