The Power In The Count Of Monte Cristo

Anyone can act powerful but true power comes from within. Power is a recurring theme in the historical fiction novel, The Count of Monte Cristo, Alexander Dumas. Edmond Dantés later known as The Count of Monte Cristo is imprisoned for a crime he does not commit. Realizing that he has been framed, Dantés sets his sights on the men who betray him; Danglars, Fernand, and Caderrouse. Edmond emerges from prison as The Count of Monte Cristo, a powerful and wealthy man. Abraham Lincoln once said “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” After making terrible and fatal mistakes, the characters in the novel are given the chance to redeem themselves but their power often clouds their better judgment. Caderrouse, the shallow innkeeper, is present when Danglars and Fernand frame Edmond but “[he] did not oppose the infamous deed” (Dumas 104).

In a tavern with Edmond’s other condemners Danglars hatches a despicable plan “that will bring [Edmond] bad luck” (15). Danglars has the power to not frame Edmond. If it were not for him Edmond would not have been falsely accused of a crime he did not commit, and sentenced to a life in prison. The idea of getting rid of Dantés so easily satisfies his appetite for power and control. This satisfaction takes over his moral compass and compels him to make bad decisions. Caderrouse having feeling guilty at what they put Edmond through, wishes to tell the truth about what Danglars does, but Danglars “persuades [him] not to” say anything (105). Danglars had the chance to save Dantés from a life of misery and loneliness but instead he put his ambition above all else. Danglars’s jealousy and thirst for more power allows him to ruin someone’s life without any