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Essay / The super ego in Lord of the Flies by Golding
In the novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding, the three main characters, Ralph, Jack and Piggy, represent different aspects of the human psyche. Ralph embodies the ego, the rational and logical part of the mind. Jack represents the id, the instinctive and impulsive part of the mind. However, it is the character of Piggy who embodies the superego, the moral and ethical part of the mind. Throughout the novel, Piggy's actions and beliefs align with the principles of the superego, demonstrating the importance of morality and conscience in a society without adult supervision. Piggy's role as a voice of reason and morality is evident from the beginning of the novel. When the boys first gather on the island, it is Piggy who suggests the need for rules and order. He says: “We must have rules and respect them. After all, we are not savages. We are English, and the English are the best at everything” (Golding 42). This statement highlights Piggy's belief in the importance of societal norms and moral codes, which align with the principles of the superego. While other boys are more interested in instant gratification and fun, Piggy recognizes the need for structure and responsibility. Additionally, Piggy's intellectual abilities and rational thinking also contribute to his embodiment of the superego. He is the only one who understands the need to build shelters and maintain the signal fire for their possible rescue. Even when the other boys prioritize hunting and savagery, Piggy remains focused on the practical aspects of survival. This is evident when he chastises the boys for neglecting the traffic light, stating, "How can you expect to be rescued if you don't put first things first and do the right thing?" (Golding 94). Piggy's emphasis on responsibility and logical decision-making aligns with the superego's emphasis on societal values and long-term consequences. In addition to his rationality, Piggy also displays a strong sense of morality and empathy. When Jack and his followers kill a mother pig, they leave her head on a stick as an offering to the "beast". However, Piggy is horrified by this act and urges the boys to think about the ethical implications. He said: “What are we? Humans? Or animals? Or savages? What will the adults think? Leave, hunt pigs, put out fires, and now! (Golding143). Piggy's concern for the boys' behavior and its impact on their humanity reflects the Superego's emphasis on moral conscience and societal expectations. Additionally, Piggy's physical appearance and vulnerability contribute to his role as an embodiment of the Superego. He is overweight, wears glasses and suffers from asthma, which makes him an easy target for teasing and bullying from the other boys. Despite this, Piggy still maintains his moral compass and refuses to succumb to the island's savagery. His resilience in the face of adversity and his unwavering commitment to morality highlight his embodiment of superego principles. In conclusion, the character of Piggy in Lord of the Flies aligns with the principles of the superego, representing the moral and ethical part of the human psyche. Through her actions, beliefs, and vulnerability, Piggy highlights the importance of morality and conscience in a society without adult supervision. His rationality, intellectual abilities, and empathy contribute to the novel's overall theme, emphasizing the need for societal values and responsible decision-making. The character of Piggy recalls the importance of, 1954.