Power

Definition

Power refers to the ability or capacity to influence, control, or direct the actions and behaviors of others. In the context of literature and theatre, power is often expressed through themes of authority, domination, and resistance, highlighting the dynamics between different characters and societal structures. It plays a crucial role in shaping narratives and character relationships, reflecting broader social, political, and cultural tensions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Christopher Marlowe's works often explore themes of power through complex characters who seek dominance and control over their destinies and the world around them.
2. Marlowe’s 'Doctor Faustus' delves into the struggle for power between human ambition and divine authority, raising questions about the consequences of seeking ultimate control.
3. The University Wits, including Marlowe, contributed to the evolution of dramatic forms that emphasized power struggles and individual agency within their plays.
4. Marlowe’s portrayal of historical figures frequently highlights their rise and fall in power, reflecting the fragile nature of authority and the consequences of ambition.
5. The tension between personal desire for power and moral or societal constraints is a recurring theme in Marlowe's plays, illustrating the complexities of human motivation.

Review Questions

• How do Marlowe's characters embody the concept of power, particularly in relation to their ambitions and desires?
  • Marlowe's characters often embody power through their ambitious pursuits and desires for dominance. For example, in 'Doctor Faustus,' Faustus seeks ultimate knowledge and control by making a pact with Lucifer. This reflects not only his desire for personal power but also the inherent conflict between human ambition and moral boundaries. The struggles these characters face illustrate the complexities of power dynamics in their relationships with others and with greater societal forces.
• In what ways does Marlowe challenge traditional notions of authority through his depiction of power struggles in his works?
  • Marlowe challenges traditional notions of authority by presenting characters who defy social norms and question established hierarchies. His protagonists often confront figures of authority—like Faustus challenging God or Tamburlaine defying kings—highlighting the instability of power structures. By depicting these struggles, Marlowe invites audiences to reconsider who holds power and how it can be challenged or subverted, revealing the fluidity of authority.
• Evaluate how Marlowe’s exploration of power reflects broader societal changes occurring during his time.
  • Marlowe’s exploration of power reflects broader societal changes such as the shift towards individualism during the Renaissance. His characters' quests for power often parallel emerging ideas about personal agency and ambition as well as challenges to established institutions like religion and monarchy. As these societal changes unfolded, Marlowe's works resonated with audiences navigating a world where traditional authorities were increasingly questioned, making his commentary on power both timely and relevant in exploring human nature and society's evolving dynamics.

Related terms

Authority: The legitimate power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience, often linked to social roles or positions.

Subversion: The act of undermining or challenging established authority or norms, often represented in literature as a means of resistance against oppressive forces.

Patriarchy: A social system in which men hold primary power, dominating in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.