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The Ethical Implications Of Power In Hamlet And The Romance Of The Three Kingdoms

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Ethical Implications of Power
The discussion surrounding power and its corrupting influence on individuals has been prevalent in literature for centuries. Chinese literature, specifically “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” and Western literature, such as Shakespeare's “Hamlet,” explore this topic extensively. Both texts depict individuals who are corrupted by power, leading them to make unethical and dangerous decisions. In this paper, we will dive deeper into the ethical implications of power and its corrupting influence on individuals in “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms” and “Hamlet.”

Both “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms” and “Hamlet” explore the ethical implications of power and the corrupting influence it can have on individuals. Busslinger (2013) argues that power not only corrupts, it degrades human morality. In Chinese literature, emphasis is placed on the negative impacts that power has on individuals. Power breeds egoism and selfishness, leading individuals to take drastic actions to maintain their power. This can be seen in Cao Cao's actions in “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms” as he …show more content…

The two texts present the idea that power is the corrupting force that leads individuals to make dangerous and unethical decisions. In “The Romance of the Three Kingdoms,” Liu Bei struggles to maintain his power and uphold his moral code when his adopted son, Guan Yu, goes against his orders and kills an ally. The situation prompts Liu Bei to reflect on his actions and question his own ethics. Similarly, in “Hamlet,” the titular character is faced with a similar ethical dilemma, as he seeks to avenge his father's death while remaining true to his morals. Both texts explore the idea that power can make individuals forget their ethical obligations and responsibilities, leading to actions that have severe

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