How does the Myth of Prometheus fit into the theme of Ch. 2 = "Fire on the Mountain," in LOF, discussing the symbolism of "FIRE" in chapter 2. This should be a short essay 3 - 5 paragraphs
The Myth of Prometheus and its symbolism of fire can be seen as fitting into the theme of Chapter 2, "Fire on the Mountain," in Lord of the Flies. In this chapter, fire is introduced as a key symbol, representing both the boys' hope for rescue and their destructive power. In order to understand this connection, let's delve into the myth and examine its relevance to the events in the chapter.
The Myth of Prometheus originates from Greek mythology and tells the story of Prometheus, a Titan who defies the gods by stealing fire from Mount Olympus and giving it to humanity. In Lord of the Flies, fire symbolizes both civilization and its disintegration. Fire is first introduced as a means of rescue in Chapter 2, when Ralph gathers the boys on the mountaintop and suggests using smoke signals to attract passing ships or airplanes. This reflects Prometheus's act of giving fire to humanity as a tool for progress and survival.
However, as the chapter progresses, the symbolism of fire becomes twofold. Although the fire initially represents hope and salvation, it also reveals the boys' inherent destructive nature. When the boys become distracted and neglect their responsibility to maintain the fire, it goes out, symbolizing their loss of connection with civilization. This loss of control results in missed opportunities for rescue, while the fire that once represented hope becomes a symbol of their descent into savagery.
Moreover, the fire also serves as a metaphor for the boys' waning sense of order and the emergence of chaos. The boys' struggles to control and maintain the fire parallel their inability to establish a stable society on the island. As the fire grows out of control and spreads throughout the forest, it foreshadows the destruction and chaos that will follow in later chapters.
In conclusion, the Myth of Prometheus and the symbolism of fire it entails are highly relevant to Chapter 2, "Fire on the Mountain," in Lord of the Flies. The fire initially represents hope and the boys' desire for rescue, reminiscent of Prometheus's gift of fire to humanity. However, as the boys lose control of the fire, it becomes a symbol of their inner savagery and the breakdown of civilization on the island. The myth's relevance helps readers understand the potential for both progress and destruction inherent in human nature, a theme that runs throughout the novel.