Overall, honor is a scarce trait to be found
on the island. Over time, the group dishonorsas their leader. They dishonor the natural
resources that the island offers. They dishonor moral code by killing several of the boys. So
when a glimpse of honor emerges, it is worth taking note of.
is one
character who stands apart, and he does show honor to things most of the boys do not. He honors
the island by refusing to kill things. He honors the boys, always trying to speak truth to them
and treating them with compassion. Sadly, the group viciously murders Simon with even Ralph
andpassively participating. This shows that honor isn't valued in the boys' savagery.
At the end of the novel, an naval officer shows up to rescue the group, his position
one demanding honor. He stands in stark contrast to the "filthy appearance" of Ralph
in front of him who "[needs] a bath, a haircut, a nose-wipe and a good deal of
ointment" (chapter 12). Thus, the sense of honor he brings to the boys also stands in sharp
contrast as he notes that he "should have thought that a pack of British boys" would
have "put up a better show." In the end, Ralph realizes that he has dishonored his
country, himself, and his "wise friend called Piggy."
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