In Lord of the Flies, Piggy's glasses symbolize more than just a means to improve his vision. They are used by different characters in various ways, and Golding uses them to explore deeper ideas about society and human nature on the island.

Piggy's Outlier Status

From the beginning, Piggy's appearance sets him apart from the other boys, making him an outsider. Being called the "fat boy" with "thick spectacles" and other unkind names highlights his physical differences, leading readers to feel sympathy for him. This mirrors the real-world scenario of children ostracizing those who appear vulnerable, drawing attention to the theme of societal exclusion.

Symbolism of Intelligence and Rationality

Piggy's glasses also serve as a symbol of intelligence and logic. When Piggy asserts that "life… is scientific … there isn't no beast … there isn't no fear … unless we get frightened of people", it demonstrates the depth of his intellect, despite his colloquial language. The moment when Jack smacks Piggy's head, causing his glasses to fly off, highlights the disrespect for rationality, further emphasizing the symbolism of Piggy's glasses.

Exploitation for 'Evil' Intentions

The glasses are also exploited for 'evil' intentions, as seen when Jack, in his savage dominance, brandishes Piggy's broken glasses. They were initially used to light a signal fire for rescue, but Jack repurposes them to light a fire for cooking hunted meat, highlighting the contrast in priorities and values between the boys. This serves to explore fundamental issues such as human sin and the conflict between good and evil.

Contrast in Characters' Responses

The different responses to Piggy's glasses, such as Jack's hunger for power, Ralph's hope for rescue, and Piggy's respect for foresight and logic, provide insight into the characters and the society they form on the island. These responses help to explore the deeper ideas about society and its people in Lord of the Flies.

Conclusion

Piggy's glasses serve as a powerful symbol in Lord of the Flies, contradicting the belief that common sense can master any problem. They are used by different characters to satisfy various needs, shedding light on the complexities and contradictions of human nature. Through Piggy's glasses, Golding delves into the fundamental issues and conflicts that define the human experience, making them a central and significant element in the novel.