Topic > Piggy in "Lord of the Flies": Symbol of Civilization

IndexIntroductionBody Paragraph 1Body Paragraph 2Body Paragraph 3ConclusionIntroductionLord of the Flies by William Golding is a profound exploration of human nature, social structures and the thin veneer of civilization that can be easily torn off. One of the central figures in this narrative is Piggy, whose character serves as a poignant symbol of intellectualism, rationality, and the fragile nature of social norms. Through Piggy, Golding presents a stark contrast to the other boys on the island, particularly in their descent into savagery. Piggy's consistent adherence to logic and order highlights the inherent conflict between the human instinct for civilization and the primal need for power and dominance. This essay will explore Piggy's role in "Lord of the Flies," examining how her character embodies the virtues of reason and social order, and how her final fate underlines the novel's bleak view of human nature. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Body Paragraph 1 Piggy's physical appearance and demeanor immediately distinguish him from the other boys on the island. Described as overweight, asthmatic and short-sighted, Piggy is a ridiculed and marginalized figure. However, beneath this seemingly insignificant appearance lies a mind endowed with remarkable intellect and foresight. Piggy's knowledge of practical matters, such as the use of the conch to call meetings and the importance of maintaining a signal fire, demonstrates his ability for logical thinking and his commitment to order. Unlike other kids, who are quickly swayed by the allure of freedom and the absence of adult supervision, Piggy consistently upholds rules and structure. His glasses, a symbol of clarity and intuition, are essential for lighting the fire, further underlining his role as a bringer of knowledge and civilization. Body Paragraph 2 Despite his intellectual contributions, Piggy is often undermined and ignored by the other boys, especially characters like Jack, who represent the antithesis of Piggy's values. Jack's growing obsession with hunting and his disdain for Piggy's suggestions highlight the tension between wilderness and civilization. Piggy's reliance on the conch as a symbol of democratic order is systematically eroded as Jack's influence grows, culminating in the breaking of the conch and Piggy's tragic demise. This progression mirrors the disintegration of civil norms on the island, as the boys abandon rational discourse in favor of primal violence. Piggy's death, caused by Roger's deliberate act of cruelty, signifies the complete breakdown of order and the triumph of anarchy and brutality over reason and compassion. Body Paragraph 3 Furthermore, Piggy's relationship with Ralph serves as a microcosm of the larger struggle between civilization and chaos. Ralph, who initially relies on Piggy's intellectual guidance, gradually becomes more susceptible to the primal instincts that Jack embodies. Despite this, Piggy remains steadfast in his belief in the power of order and rationality. His unwavering support for Ralph's leadership and his persistent attempts to be heard, even in the face of ridicule and physical threats, highlight his commitment to the ideals of civility. Piggy's eventual fate, a victim of the very savagery he sought to prevent, reinforces Golding's pessimistic view of human nature. The novel suggests that intellectualism and reason are vulnerable and often powerless against the darkest and most destructive aspects.