"We've got to have rules and obey them. After all, we're not savages." (Chapter 4)
Why this is satirical:
* Irony: The statement is ironic because the boys are rapidly descending into savagery. Their attempts to maintain order and "civilized" behavior are failing.
* Target: The satire targets the hypocrisy of humans who often claim to be civilized while engaging in barbaric actions.
* Exaggeration: The emphasis on "rules" and "obeying" is exaggerated, highlighting the naivete and absurdity of the boys' belief that simply having rules will prevent them from acting savagely.
* Humor: While the situation is serious, the quote's wording and context create a humorous effect, highlighting the contrast between the boys' intentions and their actions.
This quote satirizes the human tendency to create rules and laws as a veneer of civilization while failing to address the darker aspects of human nature that can lead to chaos and brutality.