In most novels, there is a need for an important character which the author is able to portray or influence his central theme through. If not for these characters the author would struggle to have a purpose for the novel and therefore have no point to send to the reader. For William Golding, he chose a character who is very intelligent and easily differentiated individual. ... Without a fire, a pig may be useless because on the deserted island there is no other method of cooking the meat of the pig. ... Piggy's arms and legs twitched a bit, like a pig's after it has been killed. ...

• Word Count: 1765
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School

They kill a pig and leave its head for the "beast". ... When the boys do kill they kill the mother sow thus showing that they have no consideration for the future (supply of new pigs). Golding uses these descriptions of the pig well as the reader becomes aware of how he would not be easily able to kill a pig. ... He loves to dominate things including the pigs and what he can't control he seeks to ruin. ... Golding uses symbolism throughout the book is with the intent of giving significance to every character or thing. ...

• Word Count: 1420
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School

Anthony Burgess continues on to say that, "Instead of a boy-scout camp we get young savages-painted, naked, gorging on the pig-flesh, given to torture, murder, human sacrifice to false gods." ... Golding implies that it is possible that the characters in the novel are capable of becoming the beast, signifying the point where the evil has overcome them. ... When the pig is killed and shredded apart, the boys leave its head on a stake as a gift for the beast. ...

• Word Count: 1683
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School