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Essay / Piggy in "Lord of the Flies": Symbol of Civilization
Table of ContentsIntroductionBody Paragraph 1Body Paragraph 2Body Paragraph 3ConclusionIntroductionThe "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding is a profound exploration of human nature, societal structures and the thin veneer of civilization that can so easily be removed. One of the central figures in this narrative is Piggy, whose character is a poignant symbol of intellectualism, rationality and the fragile nature of societal norms. Through Piggy, Golding presents a stark contrast to the other boys on the island, particularly in their descent into savagery. Piggy's constant adherence to logic and order highlights the inherent conflict between the human instinct for civilization and the primal need for power and domination. This essay will explore Piggy's role in "Lord of the Flies," examining how his character embodies the virtues of reason and societal order, and how his eventual fate underscores the novel's dark view of human nature. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why violent video games should not be banned"?Get the original essayBody Paragraph 1Piggy's physical appearance and behavior immediately distinguish him from the other boys on the island. Described as being overweight, asthmatic and near-sighted, Piggy is a figure of ridicule and marginalization. However, beneath this seemingly unimpressive exterior lies a mind of considerable intelligence and foresight. Piggy's knowledge of practical matters, such as using the conch shell to call meetings and the importance of maintaining a signal fire, demonstrates his capacity for logical thinking and his commitment to order. Unlike the other boys, who are quickly swayed by the lure of freedom and lack of adult supervision, Piggy constantly advocates rules and structure. His glasses, a symbol of clarity and insight, are crucial in lighting the fire, further emphasizing his role as a bringer of knowledge and civilization.Body Paragraph 2Despite his intellectual contributions, Piggy is frequently undermined and ignored by the other boys, especially by the characters. like Jack, who represents the antithesis of Piggy's values. Jack's growing obsession with hunting and his disdain for Piggy's suggestions highlight the tension between savagery and civilization. Piggy's reliance on the conch as a symbol of democratic order systematically erodes as Jack's influence grows, culminating in the conch's eventual bursting and Piggy's tragic demise . This progression reflects the disintegration of civilized 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 Additionally, 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 sensitive to the primal instincts that Jack embodies. Despite this, Piggy remains true to his belief in the power of order and rationality. His unwavering support for Ralph's leadership and his persistent attempts to make himself heard, even in the face of mockery and physical threats, underscore his commitment to the ideals of civilization. Piggy's ultimate fate as a victim of the savagery he sought to prevent reinforces Golding's pessimistic view of human nature. The novel suggests that.