Tuesday, April 15, 2014

I need a thesis statement for mob mentality in Lord of the Flies.

When trying to construct a thesis statement, it's usually best to have some sort of goal in mind. For example, ask yourself what kind of question you want answered by your essay, or come up with a specific idea you will illustrate fully with examples. But you must also explore the ideas related to your topic first, before you can construct your thesis statement effectively.


In the novel Lord of the Flies, the theme of "mob mentality" is one that defines the story's maine plot trajectory. In the absence of their customary authority figures, such as teachers, headmasters, or family members, the boys are made vulnerable. As they try to establish rules and systems for survival, the question of authority becomes more and more significant. Although Simon and Piggy try to establish some systems of communication and responsibility, Jack's ways (with his loud, forceful way of speaking and his impulsive actions) seem to resonate more deeply with most of the boys.


Jack's efforts to lead hunts for wild pigs results in the majority of the boys following him passionately; this suggests their desire for meat/food is partially connected to their loyalty to him as a leader. Jack creates a somewhat animalistic energy among the boys, using chanting, masks, dancing and other activities to unite them in a way that is reminiscent of a mob. The intensity and physicality of these hunting rituals escalates the tensions already present, and makes it clear that Jack will be able to command a larger and more aggressive "mob" then Simon and Piggy.


To turn any of these ideas into a thesis statement, choose the one that interests you the most. Then, construct a sentence that contains the point you want to illustrate. For example: "Jack's ability to provide fresh meat for the boys inspires their loyalty, and this encourages them to follow him with a mob-like mentality that disregards the safety of others."

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