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Comparing Power In Macbeth And All Quiet On The Western Front

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Power impacts everyone greatly, whether it be as motivation to succeed or have it brainwash them into giving reason to their immoral acts. In William Shakespeare's play, Macbeth; The Odyssey by Homer; and Erich Maria Remarque’s novel, All Quiet on the Western Front, power is a substantial theme which has negative effects. Shakespeare's play is about an ambitious soldier, Macbeth, with the desire to become king and will do anything to get to the top. All Quiet on the Western Front is a novel about Paul, a german soldier, and his damaging experience in the battle for power between two sides of the world. Homer’s epic poem tells the story of man, Odysseus, and his long journey home after leaving his throne to defend his country. The desire for dominance and power can result in disregarding the humanity of others that stand in the way. On the journey to ultimate power, friendship is omitted and power is put first. In Macbeth, Macbeth is given the opportunity to become king, the greatest power, and seizes it. He encounters three witches who tells him a prophecy that he and Fleance, the son of Macbeth’s life long friend: Banquo, will become king. ……… MACBETH: The interim having weighed it, let us speak Our …show more content…

He shows that he only needs him and his son to triumph over hundreds and translates that to power. Before he kills the suitors, he bragged to even them that they would not make it out alive because of the power and strength he possessed. Even looking at the large piles of dead bodies, Odysseus feels no remorse just the feeling of pride after having regained his power. A ruler is supposed to show his followers how to live and behave, but Odysseus does the opposite by killing his people, showing he only desires to have the throne for power, not because he cares for his country. Strength and dominance can be shown in unethical ways, especially when striving for

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