Imagine being stranded on a desert island, with no rules or authority figures to maintain order. This is the premise of William Golding's famous novel, Lord of the Flies. Throughout the text, the character of Piggy serves as a symbol of reason and civility, in contrast to the innate ferocity that emerges in the other boys. One of the most chilling moments in the story occurs when Roger, a once meek and obedient child, brutally kills Piggy. This essay will explore the meaning of this event, analyzing quotes from the text that highlight Roger's transformation and the tragic consequences of his actions. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Roger's transformation from a shy, submissive child to a ruthless killer is a central theme in Lord of the Flies. This is evident in the following quote: "Roger picked up a handful of stones and began throwing them. Yet there was a space around Henry, perhaps twenty feet in diameter, into which he dared not throw them. Here, invisible but strong, was the taboo of the old life. Around the crouching child was the protection of the parents, the school, the police and the law." (Golding, 62) This quote illustrates Roger's initial restraint and recognition of social norms. However, as the boys descend further and further into savagery, this control begins to erode. As Roger's inhibitions decrease, his sadistic tendencies become more pronounced. This is exemplified in the following quote: "Roger bent down, picked up a stone, aimed it and threw it at Henry, threw it without hitting it. The stone, that symbol of an absurd time, leapt five meters to Henry's right and fell into the water . " (Golding, 62) Here, the deliberate lack 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 kills Piggy, the embodiment of reason and intellect. The quote "Roger, with a sense of delirious abandonment, rested his whole weight on the lever." (Golding, 200) captures the chilling moment when Roger releases the boulder that crushes Piggy to death. The use of the word "delusional" suggests that Roger has completely succumbed to his primal instincts, devoid of any rationality or conscience. This heartbreaking act signifies the triumph of savagery over civilization, as Piggy's death extinguishes the last vestiges of order remaining on the island. In conclusion, the quotes from Lord of the Flies involving Roger's killing of Piggy highlight the tragic consequences of uncontrolled savagery. Roger's gradual descent into violence, symbolized by his initial restraint followed by his sadistic actions, ultimately culminates in Piggy's murder. This event serves as a turning point in the novel, marking the complete collapse of civilization on the island. The story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the fragility of the social order and the potential for darkness that resides within us all. Bibliography: Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get Custom EssayGolding, William. Lord of the Flies. Penguin books, 1954.