William Golding creates a microcosm of civilization on the abandoned island, and each of the characters in the novel represents various types of individuals found in society. Ralph represents a conscientious leader struggling to maintain control; Jack represents barbarism and is a bloodthirsty leader who rises to power by manipulating his followers; the littluns represent the mindless masses of society; Piggy is an intellectual individual who represents civility and structure.
Piggy plays a significant role in the novel because he openly supports structure, democracy, and morality. Piggy is connected to the "adult world" because he blatantly opposes savagery and is an outspoken proponent of civilization. Golding uses Piggy's character to suggests that less physically gifted and fit members of society rely on laws, regulations, and authority figures to protect them. Without restrictions and rules, Piggy is subjected to the violent capabilities of the more physically fit members of society. Unfortunately, Roger brutally murders Piggy by crushing him with a massive boulder that he rolls down a hill. Piggy's death represents and signifies the final attempt to create a civilized society on the island. Golding also suggests that individuals with "adult" mindsets do not have the ability to persuade others to follow their directives without the physical threat of punishment.
Golding's predominant message throughout the novel is that the inherent evil found within every person will conquer morality and rational thought processes associated with the "adult world," effectively destroying any attempt to create a civil society when given the opportunity.
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