The Provocative Persuasions of Power

As humans--we have always hungered for power. Whether it is simply the desire to be heard in a public banter, or the want of control over a friend. Both situations cause hostile conditions for both the claimant and their patrons.

At the moment, many people are struggling with power. Thought countless people find it easier to coerce their way into apprehending superiority over others by relying on their temerity. Such techniques develop into violent, chaotic, situations. In Cairo's Tahrir Square, Egypt, the blood of a once gregarious city has been smeared about the stones of a once docile center of the city, causing the country's newly borne ignominy. Egypt has experienced recent struggles with their country's control over the government. The battle over Democracy and their government's loss of control of power has caused panic across the country- causing people to strike in fear of their futures in the country they love. The leader of Egypt--Hosni Mubarak--is gifted with all of the possible acquired power in his country, yet he ceases to expunge the violence that is currently in Cairo. 

In my English class we have been examining the book: The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by Shakespeare, and have recently discovered an adamant example of the downsides of power. Brutus goes through an emotionally challenging process over the decision of killing his beloved friend --Caesar--, or trusting Caesar with authority over all inhabitants. The pressure upon Brutus becomes strident as Cassius strains to draw him in. Finally, Brutus comes to join in the conspiracy with ultimate clemency towards Caesar--still extolling his praised companion. Though the unexpected assassination of Julius Caesar brings the citizens of Rome to question Brutus in his act of heresy towards a fellow ally. Even Julius Caesar himself is astonished at his friends' actions, and exclaims:

"Et tu, Brute?"

(Even you, Brutus?)

Brutus had chosen to abet the conspirators- determined that his conclusion was the correct one for the entire city of Rome. Though his decision may prove to come back to haunt him in his future ventures, his heart was in the right place.

Power is visualized by its two main definitions:

1. To supply with electricity or other means of energy

2. The possession of control or command over others; authority

There is a clear difference between using "power" to ignite a fire and using "power" to create a long awaited rancor towards your foes. Both definitions contrast each other greatly. The first speaks for the use of power to ensure the success of certain devices. The second addresses the manipulation of a certain being's power. Few people frequently look upon the abuse of power with negligence. Therefore, copious amounts of people extol the use of the first definition since it almost always results in good outcomes.

Power blinds men. Men are blinded by power. Both power and men are monsters. Yet it only takes one of these avarices to overcome the other in order to achieve serenity.

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."

-Abraham Lincoln-