Final Answer:
Ralph orders Jack and the rest of the children to build a fire before hunting the beast.
Step-by-step explanation:
In William Golding’s novel “Lord of the Flies,” Ralph, as the leader, understands the importance of maintaining a signal fire for potential rescue. Before hunting the beast, Ralph instructs Jack and the other children to build a fire as a means of ensuring their safety. This action is crucial in maintaining a connection with the outside world and increasing their chances of being rescued. The signal fire represents their hope for rescue and civilization, making it a top priority for Ralph.
The significance of this instruction lies in its symbolic representation of order and civilization amidst chaos and fear. By prioritizing the signal fire, Ralph emphasizes the need for structure and organization, contrasting with Jack’s focus on hunting and savagery. This decision reflects Ralph’s commitment to maintaining a sense of normalcy and connection to the outside world, despite the growing fear of the unknown “beast” on the island. Ultimately, Ralph’s directive to build a fire before hunting the beast underscores his leadership style and his unwavering determination to uphold a semblance of civilization in their isolated environment.
The act of building a fire before embarking on the hunt serves as a pivotal moment in highlighting the contrasting priorities and leadership styles between Ralph and Jack. It emphasizes the underlying themes of order versus chaos, civilization versus savagery, and rationality versus impulsiveness that are prevalent throughout the novel. This decision not only impacts their immediate survival but also sets the stage for the power struggle and moral dilemmas that unfold among the boys on the island.