Over the course of the novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding, the character of Roger undergoes a profound transformation, going from a gentle boy to a sadistic and violent individual. This essay aims to analyze Roger's character development, exploring the factors that contribute to his fall into the wilderness and the implications of his actions. By examining Roger's behavior, interactions with other characters, and symbolic meaning, it becomes apparent that he represents the dark side of human nature and embodies the evil inherent in society. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Topic Sentence: Roger's initial behavior is characterized by a sense of restraint and obedience, which masks his true nature. At the beginning of the novel, Roger is presented as a quiet and shy boy, often described as "a thin, furtive boy whom no one knew, who kept to himself with an inner intensity of evasion and secrecy". His unassuming nature is exemplified by his hesitation to throw stones at Henry, a younger boy, for fear of punishment. This reluctance to harm others suggests that Roger possesses a moral conscience and a respect for the rules of society. However, as the story progresses, Roger's behavior begins to change, reflecting the disintegration of the social order on the island. Golding describes Roger's transformation, stating that "there was a space around Henry, perhaps twenty feet across, into which he dared not throw himself. Here, invisible but strong, was the taboo of the old life." This passage alludes to the restrictions imposed by civilization, which prevent Roger from fully embracing his dark desires. Topic Sentence: Roger's descent into the wilderness is facilitated by the absence of social norms and the influence of other characters. As the kids on the island descend into chaos and abandon the rules of civilization, Roger's inner sadism begins to manifest itself more clearly. In the absence of consequences, he feels free and has the power to act on his violent impulses. This is evident in the scene where Roger deliberately throws rocks at the Samneric twins, as they gather firewood. Golding describes this act as follows: "Roger picked up a handful of stones and began throwing them. Yet there was a space around Henry, perhaps twenty feet across, into which he dared not throw them. Here, invisible but strong, was the taboo of the old life." Furthermore, Roger's transformation is also influenced by the character of Jack, who embodies the natural inclination towards ferocity. Jack's influence on Roger is evident when he says, "Roger's arm was conditioned by a civilization that knew nothing of him and was in ruins." This statement suggests that Jack's leadership and disregard for social norms corrupted Roger, leading him further down the path of savagery. Theme Sentence: Roger's actions have symbolic meaning, representing the destructive power of uncontrolled human nature. Throughout the novel, Roger's increasingly sadistic behavior serves as a symbol of the inherent evil within society. As he becomes more violent, his actions mirror the ensuing chaos and destruction on the island. This is exemplified in the scene where Roger kills Piggy by intentionally pushing a rock on him. The act of killing Piggy represents the complete collapse of order and the triumph of evil over reason and morality. Furthermore, Roger's actions also reflect the loss of innocence experienced by the boys on the island. As he becomes wilder, his behavior mirrors, 1954.