Quick Character Summaries

Question 1

Ralph

Answer 1

The largest and most physically powerful. Wants to plan and follow rules, but even he is sometimes seduced by savagery.

Symbolises: law, government and civil society.

Question 2

Piggy

Answer 2

The smartest boy but has asthma and is fat, so tends to be bullied. He has a tendency to lecture and is ridiculed.

Symbolises: science and rationality.

Question 3

Jack

Answer 3

The leader of the hunters. Loves to hunt and kill and gets angry when he doesn’t get his way. Believes a leader should be obeyed.

Symbolises: dominance and power.

Question 4

Simon

Answer 4

Dreamy, dark-haired boy prone to fits. He recognises that the beast is within them. He is unafraid and mediates.

Symbolises: religion and spirituality.

Question 5

Roger

Answer 5

Quiet and intense at first then becomes more evil. He tortures Samneric, kills Piggy and likes to inflict pain.

Symbolises: sadism

Question 6

Littluns

Answer 6

Not easy to distinguish. They are fearful, terrified of the beast and just want to play.

Symbolises: everyday people who are manipulated by leaders.