Why
We chose the topic of absolute power because corruption is a prevalent threat around the world and throughout history. Even people hailed as heroes can become corrupt if given too much power.
A good example of this is in The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. Towards the end of The Song of Achilles, Achilles’ pride begins to get the better of him. When Agamemnon takes Briseis as a prisoner, Patroclus insists that Achilles not let his pride overcome him and save her. Achilles refuses, knowing that if Agamemnon rapes his “property”, Achilles will be within his rights to kill Agamemnon for his insult. Because Achilles is a powerful figure who has sway with the Gods, he can stand aside and let his people die without personal consequence, forcing Agamemnon’s hand. Before becoming a legend, he would not have let his men die so easily, proving that the power he now wields has corrupted him.
Achilles is a hero admired and loved by many, but as his power increased, so did his hubris. Absolute power can corrupt even those who started good and just, making it one of the greatest threats to our society.
A good example of this is in The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller. Towards the end of The Song of Achilles, Achilles’ pride begins to get the better of him. When Agamemnon takes Briseis as a prisoner, Patroclus insists that Achilles not let his pride overcome him and save her. Achilles refuses, knowing that if Agamemnon rapes his “property”, Achilles will be within his rights to kill Agamemnon for his insult. Because Achilles is a powerful figure who has sway with the Gods, he can stand aside and let his people die without personal consequence, forcing Agamemnon’s hand. Before becoming a legend, he would not have let his men die so easily, proving that the power he now wields has corrupted him.
Achilles is a hero admired and loved by many, but as his power increased, so did his hubris. Absolute power can corrupt even those who started good and just, making it one of the greatest threats to our society.
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HAPPY LEADING!
HAPPY LEADING!