Wednesday, October 13, 2010

What type of ruler would Harrison have been? Would he have been better or worse than the Handicapper General and her agents?

Harrison Bergeron would not be a much better leader than Diana Moon Glampers because he declares himself "Emperor."


Interestingly, when he tears down the door to the television station, Harrison's actions in dominating the situation and his declarations, "I am the Emperor!" and "I shall now select my Empress!" suggest how quickly power corrupts. While he wants to restore individuality and give those who are exceptional the recognition they deserve by removing all handicaps, his words imply that he will also establish a hierarchy in his new society in which the "superior" people will be at the top.


Also, the fact that Harrison goes to the television station in order to reach as many people as he can indicates that he understands the power of the medium of television as a controlling device, just as the Handicapper General does. Thus, his actions further suggest that he would be imperious and undemocratic, even if he does free people from the physical impediments they must wear.

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