IndexIntroductionPiggy's Unappreciated ContributionsPiggy as a Leader in Lord of the FliesConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionIn any group of children, it is a given that some will be popular and powerful while others will be teased and rejected. In the real world, adults use their authority to control these divisions and maintain a balanced group dynamic. In Lord of the Flies, however, the children must fend for themselves and elect their own leader, and Piggy, wise but despised, is never taken seriously. Although Piggy is intelligent, rational, and innovative, he lacks the charisma and facility with language that both Ralph and Jack possess, traits that the book suggests play a crucial role in establishing their authority. Piggy may have the tactical intelligence to be a good leader, but because he can't play the role convincingly, he wouldn't be able to marshal the boys if given the chance. Piggy's dynamic in Lord of the Flies exemplifies the challenges of leadership in a primitive environment. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Piggy's Unappreciated Contributions While his contributions often go unappreciated, Piggy presents some of the island's most important innovations. He sees the conch's potential as a harvesting tool and firmly believes in its ability to keep operations running smoothly. He understands the importance of taking a census, which the other kids only recognize after the little boy with the mulberry birthmark disappears and they are unable to determine how many other little ones were killed in the fire. Piggy's glasses provide the spark for the fire signal, metaphorically demonstrating how intellect can spark great progress. The studious and sensitive Piggy is a born administrator, one who understands how to effectively classify and use information. He also displays surprising personal strength, both in his ability to tolerate the cruel insults of the other boys, including his supposed friend Ralph, and in his willingness to express the unpleasant truth about the likelihood of rescue. However, despite these admirable qualities, Piggy fails spectacularly on those few occasions when he attempts to lead. He stubbornly holds on to outdated customs, such as the use of the conch, long after Ralph and Jack realize that the conch no longer holds sway over the group. Piggy insists on rules even when the rules are clearly irrelevant, and this fussy attitude, along with his constant talking and self-righteous complaints, drives people away. Ralph and Jack intuitively know how to rally followers, while Piggy seems to relentlessly repel them. Piggy is not so successful, in fact, that he eventually dies in the act of trying to lead: he is crushed while waving the conch, futilely ordering the others to listen to him. Piggy as a leader in Lord of the Flies Piggy's total lack of success in a leadership role suggests that there are significant differences between a "leader" and a "thinker". Ralph has an aura of poise and ability that wins his trust. His authority is rooted in personality rather than innovation (this is why he relies on Piggy) and he understands the importance of rhetoric in winning followers. For example, he speaks the language of rescue, playing on the boys' deepest hopes and fears to strengthen his hold on them. Jack also wields power effectively, and boys are attracted to his charm and charisma. Jack's leadership is rooted in intimidation, what, 1954.