Notions of Power in Othello and 1984 Referring to Martin Luther King
Never was there ever a more ambiguous term than Power. To single out any one definition of power would limit the words potential, however, the ability to do or act; capability of doing or accomplishing something, is succinct in entertaining its polysemic nature. Power is subjective to its holder, wether it be the individual, the people or the position. Through the quote, “I am not interested in Power for Powers sake. I am interested in power that is moral, that is right, that is good”, Martin Luther King Jr presents an ethical, just view of power, contrary to those explored in the texts Othello and 1984. Shakespeare and Orwell use specific literary devices to successfully portray the Power of the Individual, Power of Position and Power of the People. In Othello we see Iago’s abuse and ambitions for power and throughout 1984, Winston's subjective view of the authoritarian government is singled out and vanquished, which shows the power of manipulation and totalitarian control, as well as the power of fear and hate.
To be knowledgable, influential and charismatic are key features contributing to Power of the Individual. Contrary to the ambitions of Martin Luther King Jr, Iago (Othello) expresses a motiveless malignity which directs his disguised exhibits of power. He may have slight ulterior motives- jealousy for Cassio’s lieutenancy and revenge at Othello’s betrayal- but his want of power is purely selfish; Power of the Individual. Iago weaves an intricate web of lies and influence, convincing Othello that Desdemona is an adulterer, yet separating himself from the accusations cunningly. “The Moor already changes with my poison. Dangerous conceits are in their natures poisons Which at the first are scarce found to distaste, But with a little act upon the blood Burn like the mines of sulfur.” He uses metaphor to compare how his accusations work like poison, slowly entering Othello's mind with his mind at ease, until provocation allows it to intoxicate him entirely.
To be knowledgable, influential and charismatic are key features contributing to Power of the Individual. Contrary to the ambitions of Martin Luther King Jr, Iago (Othello) expresses a motiveless malignity which directs his disguised exhibits of power. He may have slight ulterior motives- jealousy for Cassio’s lieutenancy and revenge at Othello’s betrayal- but his want of power is purely selfish; Power of the Individual. Iago weaves an intricate web of lies and influence, convincing Othello that Desdemona is an adulterer, yet separating himself from the accusations cunningly. “The Moor already changes with my poison. Dangerous conceits are in their natures poisons Which at the first are scarce found to distaste, But with a little act upon the blood Burn like the mines of sulfur.” He uses metaphor to compare how his accusations work like poison, slowly entering Othello's mind with his mind at ease, until provocation allows it to intoxicate him entirely.