Keyword Guide · chapter-summary
Chapter 4, often titled around fear and imagination, shows how life on the island grows harsher. The boys’ fear deepens, and power begins to shift away from cooperation toward intimidation.
The chapter opens by showing the island’s brutal environment and how it affects the younger boys, especially those who struggle with fear and basic survival. Jack and his hunters become more absorbed in hunting, while Ralph focuses on shelters and rescue. When a ship passes the island, the signal fire is not lit, and the chance of rescue is lost.
Ralph confronts Jack about letting the fire go out. Jack reacts with anger and violence instead of responsibility. This moment shows Jack’s growing disregard for rules and Ralph’s authority, highlighting the clash between order and savagery.
Fear becomes a driving force in this chapter, especially for the younger boys. The signal fire represents hope and connection to civilization, and its failure signals the boys’ moral decline. Jack’s painted face begins to symbolize the loss of shame and self-control.
Chapter 4 marks a turning point where rescue becomes less important to some boys than power and pleasure. It prepares readers for deeper divisions and escalating violence later in the novel.
The main conflict is between Ralph and Jack, focusing on responsibility versus desire for power and hunting.
It shows the boys’ failure to prioritize civilization and represents a lost chance to return to order and safety.
Fear weakens cooperation and pushes the boys toward irrational behavior and reliance on strength rather than rules.
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