Ralph: The protagonist and elected leader of the boys. Ralph symbolizes order, civilization, and leadership. He prioritizes rescue efforts and maintaining a signal fire but struggles to retain authority as the group descends into savagery.

Jack Merridew: The antagonist and leader of the hunters. Jack represents savagery, violence, and the desire for power. Initially frustrated by losing the leadership election to Ralph, he later forms his own tribe, embracing barbarism and using fear to control others.

Piggy: The intellectual and rational boy who supports Ralph. Piggy represents logic, reason, and civilization but is often ridiculed for his physical weaknesses (obesity, asthma, and poor eyesight). His death signifies the collapse of rationality on the island.

Simon: A spiritual and kind boy who symbolizes innate human goodness. Simon often acts as a moral compass but is misunderstood by others. His death during a frenzied ritual highlights the boys’ descent into savagery.

Roger: Initially quiet and mysterious, Roger becomes increasingly cruel and sadistic under Jack’s leadership. He represents unchecked brutality and is responsible for Piggy’s death.

Secondary Characters

Sam and Eric (Samneric): Identical twins who initially support Ralph but are eventually coerced into Jack’s tribe. They symbolize unity and the struggle to maintain individuality under pressure.

The Littluns: The youngest boys on the island who represent innocence and vulnerability. They are largely followers who succumb to fear and chaos.

Maurice: A follower of Jack who participates in his tribe’s savage activities. Maurice represents the mindless masses swept up in mob mentality.

Percival: One of the youngest boys who clings to memories of home life but becomes increasingly hysterical. He symbolizes the loss of innocence and domestic stability.

Minor Characters

The Naval Officer: The adult who rescues the boys at the end of the novel. His presence underscores the contrast between childhood savagery and adult civilization while ironically reflecting humanity’s broader capacity for violence.