Write a short note on Piggy.
Lord of the Flies is a notable literary work by William Golding. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Lord of the Flies.
Answer
Write a short note on Piggy. [2016]
Piggy is one of the main characters in “Lord of the Flies” (1954) by William Golding (1911–1993). He represents intelligence, reason, and civilization. Piggy is overweight, wears glasses, and suffers from asthma, which makes him physically weak. Yet, he is the wisest and most sensible boy on the island.
Piggy believes in order and rules. He helps Ralph organize meetings and create laws. He says, “Which is better—to have rules and agree, or to hunt and kill?” This shows his logical mind. His glasses are used to light the signal fire. It symbolizes science and human progress.
The other boys, especially Jack, often mock and ignore him. Still, Piggy stays loyal to Ralph and the idea of democracy. He always supports peace, discipline, and moral values. He tries to remind others of adult behavior and social responsibility.
Piggy’s death is one of the most tragic moments in the novel. Roger pushes a boulder that kills him and breaks the conch shell. This symbolizes the complete destruction of reason and civilization.
Thus, Piggy represents wisdom, logic, and rational thought in a world descending into savagery. His character shows that intelligence and morality are easily crushed when violence and chaos rule.