Chapter 12: Cry of the Hunters

Ralph's Predicament

• Ralph is hiding, reflecting on his injuries and the danger he's in.
• His wounds are severe, including bruises and scratches from fleeing through the forest.
• He considers bathing his wounds but realizes the necessity of remaining alert to avoid being caught.

The Hunters

• Ralph hears the hunters nearby but notes they haven't pursued him deep into the forest.
• Witnesses one of them, possibly Bill, but notes their transformation into savages.

Ralph's Strategy

• Ralph cautiously moves through the ferns and observes the tribe from a distance.
• Notices Robert on guard and a feast beginning for the tribe.
• Struggles with the knowledge of Piggy and Simon’s deaths and the conch’s destruction, which symbolize lost order and civilization.
• Feels an unbroken connection with Jack, who he realizes won’t leave him alone.

Interaction with Sam and Eric

• Ralph approaches Castle Rock where Sam and Eric are on guard.
• He discovers that they are now part of Jack’s tribe but have not painted their faces.
• Sam and Eric warn Ralph of the tribe's plan to hunt him the following day.
• Sam and Eric are forced to comply with Jack out of fear and inform Ralph of a significant danger: a stick sharpened at both ends intended for him.

Ralph's Desperation

• He searches for a safe hiding spot as the tribe's hunt for him intensifies.
• Ralph considers various options: climbing a tree, charging through the line, or finding a hidden spot.
• Discovers a thick hiding place where he believes the tribe will not find him.

The Hunt

• The tribe sets the island on fire to smoke Ralph out.
• Ralph is forced to flee from his hiding spot as the fire spreads.
• He is pursued by the tribe across the island, the fire growing rapidly and consuming everything.

Rescue

• Ralph runs to the beach, where he encounters a naval officer.
• The officer's arrival halts the chase, saving Ralph.
• The officer comments on the boys' condition, expressing surprise at their savagery.
• Ralph is emotional, reflecting on the loss of innocence and the darkness within humans.
• The officer prepares to take the boys off the island, while Ralph and the others sob, overwhelmed by their experiences and relief.

Themes

• Loss of innocence: Ralph's tears signify the end of innocence and the realization of mankind's inherent darkness.
• Civilization vs. Savagery: The boys' descent into savagery is halted by the return of an adult figure.
• Order and Chaos: The destruction of the conch and the deaths of Piggy and Simon symbolize the collapse of order.

The chapter concludes with Ralph's sobbing, symbolizing the emotional release and acknowledgment of the events that have transpired, while the officer provides a glimpse of the outside world waiting to restore order.