The Symbolic Significance of The Pig's Head on a Stick in Lord of The Flies

In William Golding's Lord of the Flies, the pig's head on a stick, also known as the "Lord of the Flies," plays a crucial role in the novel's exploration of human nature and the descent into savagery. This essay will delve into the symbolic significance of the pig's head, analyzing its representation of evil, the power dynamics it reveals among the boys, and its portrayal of the breakdown of civilization. By examining these aspects, we can gain a deeper understanding of the novel's central themes and messages.
The pig's head on a stick, with its decaying and grotesque appearance, serves as a symbol of evil throughout the novel. In the boys' imaginations, it takes on the persona of a supernatural being, known as the "Lord of the Flies," representing the inherent evil that resides within humanity. This is evident when Simon hallucinates a conversation with the pig's head, which asserts that the true source of evil lies within the boys themselves. Such symbolism highlights the dark side of human nature and the potential for savagery when civilization is stripped away.
The pig's head on a stick also reveals the power dynamics among the boys and the manipulation that arises in their struggle for dominance. Jack, the leader of the hunters, uses the presence of the pig's head to assert his authority and justify his violent actions. By placing the head on a stick as an offering to the "beast," Jack instills fear in the other boys and gains control over them. This demonstrates how power can corrupt individuals and lead to the exploitation of others for personal gain.
The pig's head on a stick serves as a powerful metaphor for the breakdown of civilization and the loss of moral values. As the boys descend into savagery, their reverence for the pig's head grows, symbolizing their descent into a primitive state. The head becomes a focal point for their rituals and sacrifices, replacing the societal norms and rules they were taught. This highlights the fragility of civilization and the ease with which it can be dismantled when confronted with the inherent darkness within human nature.
The existence of the pig's head on a stick in Lord of the Flies raises profound questions about the nature of evil, power, and civilization. It challenges our assumptions about the inherent goodness of humanity and forces us to confront the potential for darkness that lurks within us all. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of societal structures and moral values in maintaining order and preventing the descent into chaos. The pig's head serves as a cautionary symbol, reminding us of the consequences that arise when these structures are abandoned or corrupted.
In conclusion, the pig's head on a stick in Lord of the Flies is a potent symbol that represents evil, power dynamics, and the breakdown of civilization. Through its presence in the novel, it prompts a deeper exploration of human nature and the inherent capacity for savagery within us. By understanding the symbolic significance of the pig's head, we gain insight into the central themes of the novel and the profound implications it holds for society at large. Lord of the Flies serves as a stark reminder that the darkness within us can easily prevail if not actively countered by the forces of reason, morality, and civilization.

Bibliography:
Golding, William. Lord of the Flies. Faber and Faber, 1954.