'Authoritarianism In Kapuscinski's Emperor'

Kapuscinski’s “Emperor” tells a story of Ethiopia under the ruler Haile Selassie -- his rise to power, the strife that existed during his reign, and ultimately, his removal from the throne. Despite the embellished details present in “The Emperor,” Kapuscinski tells a story of the growing pains associated with the westernization of nations in the Global South. Furthermore, he shows how pressures from outside forces (in this case Europe) can lead to indirect “authoritarianism,” by making governments value its superficial image over the way its citizens are treated. However, this “authoritarianism” can be used to serve desirable ends that existed prior to westernization, such as the basal need to control and maintain a “natural order.” Throughout
But as he gains power, he uses it for purposes that are not aligned with the interests of Selassie’s administration. As a result, he is denounced by the administration and forced to face the man that “created him.” Kapuscinski uses the “dignitaries” opinions of Germame to give the reader a better understanding of their position on “reform.” Their “denunciations” of Germame stem from actions that would be perceived as benevolent to the Ethiopian population, so it becomes unclear why they are unguarded in their criticisms of him. Furthermore, it’s unclear why they describe his “communist” nature to be a “grave matter.” The word “grave” insinuates that his actions have the potential to end, to kill. But within Germame’s interaction with Selassie, we gain insight as to why his actions are “grave.” (XX) explains that Germame “failed to kiss the monarch’s hand.” Kissing someone’s hand is a symbol of subservience, of loyalty. Despite the fact that Germame was educated at Selassie’s volition, and put into power at Selassie’s will, Germame holds no allegiance to Selassie, and will not express loyalty by kissing his hand. In this interaction, we see that benevolence does not equate loyalty. Given Germame’s subsequent rebellion against Selassie’s regime, this lack of loyalty is perhaps why Selassie’s administration sees Germame’s benevolence as grave. An uneducated and powerless Germame would have been incapable of rebelling against the state. However, he was enabled by Selassie’s “benevolence,” and used his power in attempting to overthrow him. This interaction serves particular relevance in examining why “reform” is not a desirable goal for Selassie’s court, and why benevolence to the newly empowered is seen as dangerous—because it doesn’t ensure