Roger

Chapter 1

Introduced as a quiet/mysterious character - contrasts his later significance as a boy willing to commit murder

A slight, furtive boy whom no one knew, who kept to himself with an inner intensity of avoidance and secrecy

Chapter 4, nature vs nurture, Social control theory

Purposefully stops himself from hurting others - has to repress his natural instincts - enjoys terrorising those weaker than him (sense of superiority) - even without the presence of ‘articles of peace’ he still regulates himself

Roger […] picked up a stone, and […] threw it to miss

Chapter 4, nature vs nurture, Social control theory

Roger makes sure not to hit Henry, but the intent is there - Shows he is a sociopath/sadist with a violent mindset - Rogers "strange pleasure" in throwing the "stones" foreshadows the death of Piggy at the end

Roger’s arm was conditioned by a civilisation that knew nothing of him and was in ruins

Chapter 4, nature vs nurture, Social control theory

Still constrained by social contrast - reinforces the significance of civilisation and the lasting affect it has

Here invisible yet strong was the taboo of the old life

Chapter 11, the ‘beast’ within, atavism

Murders Piggy - the first completely intentional, malicious act of murder in the novel

Delirious abandonment

Chapter 12, survival of the fittest

Humanities capacity for evil - willing to not only commit murder but treats others in such an inhumane and overly violent way - cannot possibly justify actions - completely regressed

Roger sharpened a stick at both ends

What does Roger represent (2)

Cruelty, succumbing to human nature

Themes to link (3)

The heart of darkness, survival of the fittest, nature vs nurture

Context to link (4)

WW2 (Himmler), herd mentality, Hobbes, atavism

Roger throws rocks at the littluns but purposefully misses, showing his lingering inhibitions from civilised society—the "taboo of the old life". He also destroys the littluns' sandcastles, indicating his transition into cruelty.

Chapter 4

Roger shows a strong desire to hunt and kill, taking the search for the beast seriously.

Chapter 6

Roger helps sharpen a stick at both ends to put the pig's head on, foreshadowing his role in violent, lethal acts.

Chapter 8

Roger is established as the primary agent of violence under Jack's rule, threatening others and acting as a sadistic guard at Castle Rock.

Chapter 10

Roger kills Piggy by intentionally rolling a boulder on him and crushes the conch, completing his descent into total savagery. He is described as having "no inhibitions" and wielding "nameless authority" while torturing Samneric.

Chapter 11