7. (Thoughts and Opinions on Chapter 1 of Lord of the Flies)

In my mind, the bulk of this chapter is dedicated to discovery.  Originally, when only Piggy and Ralph are together on the island, they discover the conch, which is ultimately destined to become the symbol of the boys' society.  Even the discovery of one another, which is of great importance, happens early in the chapter.  This is also the chapter in which the main characters are introduced, and their specific qualities begin to show.    The appearance of Jack on the island, in my mind, sets the tone for the rest of the book.  He immediately attempts to assert himself as the unrivalled leader, a quality of self-importance and power hungriness we can observe in him throughout the entirety of the book.  He also opens the gate by tossing out a few insults towards Piggy, and telling him not to come on the venture to the mountain.  It is at this point the rivalry between Jack and Piggy is established, and Piggy is initially exiled from the community.  Finally, the boys' expedition to the top of the mountain occurs in this chapter.  This lays down the groundwork for much of the rest of the book.  The boys learn a lot about the nature of the island, including the fact that it is in fact an island, which presents the prospect of a wait before rescue.  Also, Jack has his first encounter with the pig on this expedition.  This really becomes a battle of wills in chapters to come, as Jack becomes more and more empowered to spill a pig's blood.