The Consequences of Roger's Actions: a Analysis of Quotes from Lord of The Flies

Imagine being stranded on a deserted island, with no rules or authority figures to maintain order. This is the premise of William Golding's renowned novel, Lord of the Flies. Throughout the text, the character of Piggy serves as a symbol of reason and civilization, contrasting with the innate savagery that emerges within the other boys. One of the most chilling moments in the story occurs when Roger, a formerly meek and obedient child, brutally kills Piggy. This essay will explore the significance of this event, analyzing quotes from the text that highlight Roger's transformation and the tragic consequences of his actions.

Roger's transformation from a timid and subservient child to a merciless killer is a central theme in Lord of the Flies. This is evident in the following quote: "Roger gathered a handful of stones and began to throw them. Yet there was a space round Henry, perhaps six yards in diameter, into which he dare not throw. Here, invisible yet strong, was the taboo of the old life. Round the squatting child was the protection of parents and school and policemen and the law." (Golding, 62) This quote illustrates Roger's initial restraint and acknowledgement of societal norms. However, as the boys descend further into savagery, this restraint begins to erode.

As Roger's inhibitions diminish, his sadistic tendencies become more pronounced. This is exemplified in the following quote: "Roger stooped, picked up a stone, aimed, and threw it at Henry-threw it to miss. The stone, that token of preposterous time, bounded five yards to Henry's right and fell in the water." (Golding, 62) Here, the deliberate miss suggests that Roger is testing the boundaries of his newfound freedom. By intentionally missing Henry, Roger demonstrates his growing desire to inflict harm on others, while still adhering to some semblance of morality.

Ultimately, Roger's descent into savagery reaches its climax when he murders Piggy, the embodiment of reason and intellect. The quote "Roger, with a sense of delirious abandonment, leaned all his weight on the lever." (Golding, 200) captures the chilling moment when Roger releases the boulder that crushes Piggy to his death. The use of the word "delirious" suggests that Roger has completely succumbed to his primal instincts, devoid of any rationality or conscience. This harrowing act signifies the triumph of savagery over civilization, as Piggy's death extinguishes the last remaining vestiges of order on the island.

In conclusion, the quotes from Lord of the Flies involving Roger's killing of Piggy highlight the tragic consequences of unchecked savagery. Roger's gradual descent into violence, symbolized by his initial restraint followed by his sadistic actions, ultimately culminates in the murder of Piggy. This event serves as a turning point in the novel, marking the complete breakdown of civilization on the island. The story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the fragility of societal order and the potential for darkness that resides within us all.

Bibliography:

Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Penguin Books, 1954.