How Does Golding Present Roger In Lord Of The Flies

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William Golding's allegorical novel Lord of the Flies introduces a group of kids stranded on an island, scattered and disoriented amidst the wreckage of their plane, originally seeking rescue but gradually descending into hatred and brutality driven by the hunger for dominance, with Roger emerging as a subtle yet sinister presence among them. Initially portrayed as a seemingly subtle and "furtive boy... who kept to himself with an inner intensity of avoidance and secrecy" (22), Roger evolves into a more grim and ruthless individual as he murders one of the boys with a boulder highlighting the profound exploration of savage human nature. As he is influenced by societal rules and "conditioned by a civilization.[which is] in ruins," (62) Golding …show more content…

However, while some boys, like Ralph, actively strive to establish order and rules for survival, others, like Roger, exhibit a notable reluctance to engage with the group. Golding skillfully identifies Roger's hesitation, hinting at a deeper detachment from the collective, which foreshadows the theme of inherent darkness within him. As Henry, a little seeking relief from the chaos among the older boys, "wanders off along the beach," (61) Roger shadows him and starts hurling stones, deliberately “[throwing] to miss” (62). Through this calculated act, Roger displays methodical cruelty aimed at instilling fear and asserting dominance without causing direct physical harm. Roger's choice to throw a miss at Henry is a chilling portrayal of his innate cruelty, the complexity of societal norms, and the dark aspects of human nature. With Roger's disturbing behavior towards the littlun, Golding reflects the idea that without societal constraints, individuals revert to their innate inhumanity, highlighting the delicate thread that separates humanity from savagery, emphasizing the diversities of brutal human nature and the profound implications of societal breakdown when not directly harming another individual. …show more content…

Golding reveals the group fracturing as Ralph and Piggy cling to hope and strive for order among the loyal, with others who descend into cruelty, wielding authority over the majority of the kids. Initially restrained by societal norms, Roger gradually abandons his civility, revealing a dark and ruthless identity that festers beneath the surface. Roger's act of violence against Piggy represents the apex of pent-up aggression and unchecked brutality as Ralph tries to save Piggy’s glasses and gets into a fight with Jack, the leader of the ‘savages’ (1866). In a moment of cruelty, Roger seizes the opportunity to assert his dominance as he rolls a boulder on Piggy, who “[falls] forty feet and [lands] on his back across the. sea” (181), and his “arms and legs [twitch]. like a pig after it has been killed.” (181). The impact of Piggy's lifeless body crashing onto the rocks below symbolizes not only the loss of innocence but also the attrition of humanity itself.

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