Poor Piggy the Great

Different people in the world are often a representation of past leaders in society, as demonstrated in Lord of the Flies, a novel by William Golding. Piggy represents the voice of logic, who's intelligence and good intentions are distorted by his physical and emotional weaknesses.

Piggy is often able to determine a cause or course of action in any situation. His scientific way of thinking frequently proves to be logical when applied. His knowledge of nature comes into play when the conch is discovered. Piggy is the only one who knows how to not only use it, but to also put it to use. The conch was used to call attention as well as an article of temporary power. Piggy also is able to use his glasses to start a fire from light from the sun.

Intelligence is a key factor in Piggy's personality. His good nature is displayed to Ralph, mainly because he is the only kid who would show Piggy any respect, along with his friends, Sam and Eric.

Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies

Re-Covered Books: The Lord of the Flies

Piggy attempts to restore confidence in Ralph to take control as a leader, showing his good judgment by supporting the peace maker.

Piggy's biggest faults lie in his insecurities, which were the probable causes for his physical and emotional weaknesses. His nick name was earned because he mentioned what the kids used to call him. The name Piggy is obviously related to his obese physical condition. When Ralph asked him if he was going to swim, his reply was, "I can't swim, I wasn't allowed." The reason for this was Piggy's asthma. Not long after that, Piggy mentioned his dad being dead, eliminating the father figure from his existence. Piggy is unable to respond to any verbal abuse provided by the other boys because of his ever lasting fear of rejection.

In the end, Piggy's intellectual knowledge and good judgment are not enough to prevent him from being killed by a huge boulder, due to his lack of good eye sight. William Golding successfully shows us how reason and logic play a role in society, but are not always enough to prevent certain evil forces from taking a toll.

Lord of the Flies

Lord of the Flies ( revisited )

Pigeon Lord of the Flies