Characterization In The Lord Of The Flies

All effective authors creatively utilize the literary technique of characterization in developing stories for the reader. In the book Lord of the Flies by William Golding this is definitely the case. Golding used direct and indirect characterization, and this is shown through the character Jack. Jack is a round and very dynamic character. 

William Golding uses both direct and indirect characterization throughout the novel, which is clearly shown through the character Jack. Direct characterization is used when the author uses other characters in the story to state traits about Jack, such as having a bad temper, or his need to be in control. Another example is the author's physical description of Jack saying he’s tall and thin. On the other hand, indirect characterization is used to show that Jack begins to like killing. It isn’t directly said but throughout the book there is a sense that Jack enjoys the mayhem that is occurring around him. Another form of indirect characterization can be seen in the way Jack treats the tribe. He barks out commands and treats the boys with no respect. This shows that Jack was very mean and cruel to the other boys. 

Jack is labeled as a very round character throughout the novel. Jack is a very well developed character, and the author allows us to get to know his almost brutal character. As readers we see that Jack represents the evil, violent, and dark side of people. As the story progresses his main interest, hunting, begins to turn into his overwhelming urge to kill other creatures. As these events take place, Jack's character develops in the story, so we get to know him like a real person. This concept alone means Jack is a round character.

Going through a change from the beginning to the end of the book, Jack is a dynamic character. Jack begins the book as an arrogant character, then he didn't become the tribe leader which angered him. Jack then began to lead the hunting tribe. As Jack's character progresses he gets more dark, killing Simon, separating from the rest of the group, and intentionally killing Piggy. As readers we watch Jack evolve from essentially just a normal mean school boy, to a monsterous killer. Because Jack's character was unfolded and reshaped, Jack is undoubtedly a dynamic character. 

William Golding presents a highly intriguing story through the development of Jack as well as the other characters in Lord of the Flies. Jack’s personalized characterization was presented using both direct and indirect characterization, and making Jack both round and dynamic. Jack's character alone makes the story interesting because of his development.