Makemedos Journey to Power in Aristophanes Birds :: Aristophane Birds Papers

Makemedos Journey to Power in Aristophanes BirdsHumans have always jaunted in search of what they want and need. Our earlier ancestors were nomads, wandering the countryside in search of food and shelter. It is no surprise, then, that much of old-fashioned and modern literature deals with the theme of the move and getting what one wants. This is especially true in the writing of Aristophanes Birds, from Aristophanes I Clouds, Wasps, Birds, translated by Peter Meineck, produce by the Hackett Publishing Company in Indianapolis, IN, in 1998. The main character, Makemedo, begins his journey by seeking a land free of worry and work, and ends it by becoming a divine ruler. His desire shifts from wanting a plain existence to wanting tremendous power. This change in his ultimate oddment is shown throughout the play by a series of visits from other characters. Aristophanes uses the visitors as a way of mirroring Makemedos journey on the path to power the visitors symbolise the state o f Makemedos power, and the way he deals with them is a reflection of his status.The first visitor on the path to power is Makemedo himself. He begins by journeying . . . in search of a land free from hustle and bustle / where a man skunk just settle down and rest (43-44). His pilot program demands are simple, and his ultimate goal is to find the Hoopoe, a bird who utilise to be human, who will help him find such a land. Makemedo begins his journey as a seeker, delegating the power to the Hoopoe, who can help him cause what he wantsWe thought that you might be able to help us.That in all your flying about, you may have come acrossa nice soft and woolly city where deuce mencan snuggle up and live in peace and tranquility. (119-122)The power is similarly in the hands of the birds themselves, who meet Makemedo and Goodhope with great hostility saying, Now for these two old men, the penalty is clear / Peck them to death Tear them to shreds (337-338). Makemedo is in a position of ver y little power until he deviates from his cowcatcher purpose and comes up with the idea for the birds to found their own city. The power shifts the importee the idea occurs to him. The birds are also won over Oh What a transformation, from bitterest foeman to greatest friend / Youve won us over, from now on were spill to listen to you (628-629).