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Lord of the Flies

by William Golding

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Discussion Topic

Comparing characters from Julius Caesar to Jack and Ralph from Lord of the Flies

Summary:

In Julius Caesar, characters like Brutus and Cassius can be compared to Ralph and Jack from Lord of the Flies. Brutus, like Ralph, is an idealist who prioritizes the greater good, while Cassius, similar to Jack, is ambitious and manipulative, seeking power for personal gain. Both sets of characters highlight themes of leadership, morality, and the struggle for power.

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Does Brutus from Julius Caesar resemble "Jack" or "Ralph" from Lord of the Flies?

Brutus is more likely a “Ralph” figure than a “Jack” figure.  Brutus continues to try to uphold the law in Rome, similar to how Ralph attempts to maintain order on the island.  Even when Brutus falls out of favor with the people, he continues to work toward what he believes is just, again just as Ralph does after many of the boys have left his camp to take up living and hunting with Jack.  Ralph is largely regarded as a charismatic figure among the boys, although his style of leadership is rather tame.  Brutus in his own way may also be considered charismatic, yet his words do not sway the people in the way that Marc Antony’s words do.

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