Chapter 4: Piggy's Glasses Symbolism

The picture I have chosen is of Piggy's glasses. In the beginning of the novel piggy's glasses symbolize represent the power of science and intellectual endeavor in society. Piggy knows things the other boys don't, like how to use the conch, and the necessity for laws and order. This provides a symbol of advancement, innovation, and discovery. During the fire making process the boys use his glasses to start the fire using it magnification powers. This is also Piggy's way of "seeing", as in things the other boys can not. When the other boys take his glasses they are taking his greatest attribute. Without the glasses piggy is useless. In chapter 4 during and argument with Ralph, Jack sees Piggy as a scapegoat for his anger. He punches Piggy in the stomach and throws this glasses into the stones. This cracks his glasses and symbolizes that he has become a little more useless to the group. Now that they are cracked they symbolize a detachment from civilization. They no longer symbolize reasons and smart.