What does Roger killing Piggy represent in the Lord of the Flies? William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies explores the collapse of civilization and the emergence of savagery in a group of British schoolboys stranded on an uninhabited island. Among the boys, Roger, who initially appeared as a quiet and reserved character, gradually unleashes his inner savage nature. This transformation is exemplified by his brutal killing of Piggy, a symbol of civilization and reason, with a massive boulder. The act takes Piggy’s life and destroys the conch, the only tool the boys have to maintain order and communication. Roger’s actions ultimately represent the triumph of savagery over civilization and the collapse of society, leaving the boys to descend further into chaos and violence. This article will delve into the symbolism of Roger’s actions and explore the meaning behind his killing of Piggy in the context of the novel.
What does Roger killing Piggy represent? (Complete Answer)
In William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, Roger transforms drastically from a seemingly quiet and reserved boy to a savage murderer. His actions, particularly the killing of Piggy, represent a significant shift in the balance between civilization and savagery on the island.
At the novel’s beginning, Roger is described as a “slight, furtive boy,” often seen in the background, watching and observing the other boys’ actions. However, as the boys become increasingly immersed in their savage ways, Roger sheds his inhibitions and joins in on their destructive behavior. He participates in the ritualistic hunting of the pigs, and his throwing of rocks at one of the boys during a game of “stoning” foreshadows his ultimate act of violence.
When Piggy, the voice of reason and civilization, is killed, it represents the complete breakdown of society on the island. Piggy’s glasses, which were used to start fires and symbolize the boys’ technological progress, are also shattered in the attack. The conch, a symbol of order and communication, is destroyed, leaving the boys without any means of organizing themselves or communicating with each other.
Roger’s role in the murder of Piggy signifies his complete transformation into a savage. He becomes Jack’s henchman, carrying out acts of violence without hesitation or remorse. His actions clearly indicate the triumph of savagery over civilization on the island. He represents human nature’s violent, destructive side, which can emerge when individuals are removed from the restraints of society and authority.
What was Roger’s motivation for killing Piggy?
Roger’s motivation for killing Piggy in Lord of the Flies was his increasing savagery and his desire for power and control over the other boys. Roger had already shown his willingness to hurt others, such as when he threw rocks at Henry earlier in the novel. Therefore, when the group’s moral order collapsed, and they became increasingly violent, Roger saw his opportunity to exert his power by killing Piggy and destroying the conch, which symbolized law and order in their society.
What does Roger symbolize in Lord of the Flies?
Roger in Lord of the Flies symbolizes evil. He showcases the inherent evil that exists inside every human being. Roger bullies the littluns and derives pleasure from their fear, indicating his sadistic tendencies. He also kills Piggy, a character that represents rationality and intellect, further escalating the theme of savagery prevailing over civilization in the book. Additionally, he tortures Samneric, two other characters who represent reason and morality. Roger enjoys the power his violent nature provides him, showcasing how evil can become addictive and all-consuming. Therefore, Roger is a powerful symbol of the corrupting influence of power and the destructive effects of human nature in Lord of the Flies.
What does Piggy symbolize in Lord of the Flies?
In Lord of the Flies, Piggy symbolizes intellect and rationalism. He is one of the few characters on the island who possesses a clear sense of logic and reason, and he actively tries to maintain order and establish rules among the boys. Piggy’s glasses, which he uses to start fires and see clearly, also represent the power of knowledge and scientific thinking. Despite his intelligence, Piggy is often ridiculed and disregarded by the other boys who prioritize physical strength and primal instincts. Ultimately, Piggy’s tragic fate highlights the destructive consequences of ignoring reason and embracing irrationality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Roger’s killing of Piggy represents the collapse of civilization and the triumph of savagery on the island. It signifies the total breakdown of the boys’ attempts to organize themselves and establish a functioning society. Roger’s transformation from a reserved observer to a savage murderer is a cautionary tale about the dangers of giving in to our darkest impulses and the importance of maintaining social order and moral values.