Write an analysis of the opening chapter of Lord of the Flies. How effective is it at introducing the novel's characters, concerns, and language? The first chapter of the novel, Lord of the Flies, by William Golding is effective in establishing the characters, concerns, and language for the rest of the book, as well as introducing the main themes of the novel; that problems in society are related to man's sinful nature and good versus evil. In Golding's first chapter, the main characters are introduced, we see many disturbing signs of things to come through the author's choice of language, and the beginnings of rivalries, problems, and concerns are described that will continue throughout the rest of the book. The microcosm of the island is presented from an early stage, as are the themes that emerge and remain important throughout the novel. Golding introduces the three main characters individually in the first chapter. Ralph, the main protagonist, is tall with blonde hair and is introduced first. His attitude when he first realizes that there are no adults around is one of excitement and he can't wait to be free from the adults. In stark contrast, the second character to be introduced, Piggy, "was shorter than the pretty boy and very fat". These two absolute opposites are introduced into the situation very early on, to show the differences and varieties within society. Jack, the last major character to be introduced, is described by Golding as "tall, thin and bony... his face was creased and freckled, and ugly without stupidity". Jack is the only other character who approaches Ralph in physical stature, and is described from the beginning as a leader. Ralph, by the second page, seems to have taken with...... middle of paper.... ...establishes the beginning of the problems, but by creating characters who will undoubtedly cross paths and cause conflict. These underlying themes will remain important throughout the rest of the novel and will continue to grow as the book and story progress. In conclusion, we can see that the first chapter of the novel, Lord of the Flies, by William Golding is effective in establishing the characters, concerns, and language for the rest of the book. We got to know the main characters and began to see the development of their personalities. Through Golding's use of language we picked up and interpreted many signs and learned about the concerns facing the kids stranded on the island. Golding has cleverly woven together a couple of important themes early in the novel that will continue to grow and develop throughout the rest of the novel..