The Nature of Roger in Lord of the Flies by William Golding Book Analysis

The concept of civilization is the mixing of characteristics within an organized society. With the case of Roger from the novel Lord of the Flies, after crashing onto an island with a group of additional boys, he’s pulled from his familiar civilization. As the boys descend further from their moral teachings, conflict and division begin to develop within the island. In the novel Lord of the Flies, William Golding employs Roger to illustrate a human's sadistic nature when shrouded in mystery.

The nature of Roger is kept disclosed under mystery. As Ralph calls the first assembly amongst the boys, upon his first interaction, it’s noted that “There was a slight, furtive boy whom no one knew, who kept to himself with an inner intensity of avoidance and secrecy” (Golding 22). With little context being provided to Roger, the boys are unable to create an assumption on Roger's behavior. As such, Roger is given a liability on the account of his secrecy. Additionally, as Roger is encouraged to introduce himself to the group, “He muttered that his name was Roger and was silent again” (Golding 22). Roger’s disinterest in sharing information with the boys develops his secretive characteristic, acknowledged by the other boys. In keeping to himself, Roger is able to contain his nature while keeping his motives unknown to the group of boys. However, elements of his motives begin to be revealed as times worsen.

The weakening of civilization sheds insight on Rogers intentions. As Henry and the littluns play in the waters, “Roger stooped, picked up a stone, aimed, and threw it at Henry--threw it to miss” (Golding 62). Understanding the lack of authority on the island, Roger begins to test the extent of his actions. Henry however is oblivious to Roger's actions as he’s blinded by his innocences. Additionally, as Roger thinks about the fact he could hit Henry with the rocks, his "arm was conditioned by a civilization that knew nothing of him and was in ruins” (Golding 62). Meaning, the secrecy that surrounds Roger acts as protection against his actions. The boys on the island know very little about Roger, and are therefore unaware of the true evil that he’s capable of. The capabilities of Roger however are demonstrated during the island's peak of anarchy. 

As Roger destroys the conch, he begins to act without fear of consequences. As Roger sends a rock rolling down the mountain, “the conch exploded into a thousand white fragments and ceased to exist” (Golding 181). The conch, which acted as a symbol of order amongst the boys, has now been broken by Roger. With absolutely no sense of civilization, Roger feels no sense of hesitation with his actions.