What is the purpose of Ralph's flashback about home?

Answer 1

In the "Lord of the Flies", Ralph is still very much tied to his life back in civilization. He longs for the creature comforts he enjoyed before all of this happened. Unlike Jack, he is still very much tied to the other world, and has not completely been taken over by the savagery of the island.

Answer 2

Ralph longs for a number of things such as clean clothes, a toothbrush, a bath and a hair cut but fundamentally they all boil down to one thing. Ralph wants to go home. That is why he constantly reminds the other boys of the need to be rescued. That is why he daydreamed about the cottage on the edge of the moor where he fed the ponies and watched the snow falling. He fondly remembers his favourite books and even the books he wasn't so fond of. Ralph yearns for security. It is ironic that on an island where every day can be relied upon to be pretty much the same as the day before Ralph yearns for the security of a home that constantly changed, as his father moved from,one naval base to another, a home with no mother, but a home that was still preferable to the island. Ralph's dreams of an approaching bus are a symptom of the anxiety he suffers as he become increasingly aware of the direction in which the boys under Jack's influence are ultimately heading. Ralph wants to escape because he fears the consequences of remaining, fears not only what Jack may incite others to do but fears the depths to which he himself may sink if he doesn't get rescued.

Answer 3

Ralph's flashback about home serves to highlight his longing for the comfort and safety that civilization provides. It contrasts with the chaos and primal instincts exhibited on the island, emphasizing the importance of structure and order in society. The flashback also deepens Ralph's character by showing his vulnerability and desire for a sense of belonging.

Answer 4

Ralph thinks of his past life off of the island. He thinks about his cottage, horses, and most importantly his family. He misses his home.