Many texts that examine concepts of power, reflect real life, this is called allegory. Allegory has been used in the novel Animal Farm by George Orwell and has also been used in the Barry Levinson film Wag the Dog. In studying these texts I examined different techniques of representing power, ultimate ability to be corrupted by power, and the use of allegory. In relation to these two texts I have also examined an extract from the Wild Swans novel by Jung Chang. .
Power can be represented by admiration from the society, and the authority to take charge of situations and make decisions on behalf of the populus, a great example of this representation would be the leader Napoleon in Animal Farm who takes charge of the farm after the animal rebellion, and organises tasks and jobs for each animal to complete. Napoleon also creates the seven commandments which shows his authority to make rules and decisions, the perfect example of his authority is the quote "Napoleon announced that he had decided on a new policy" which reflects his power to create rules and make decisions. .
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The representation of power by admiration, and authority to take charge in situations can also be observed in the film Wag the Dog. One character that represents high power and authority in this film is spin-doctor Conrad Brean. Conrad is shown as a powerful figure through the high use of lighting to accentuate his importance, also camera shots looking up at him to show him as a higher figure, and dialogue "What difference does it make if it's true, if it breaks it's a story". This quote shows Conrad's ability to manipulate people, and his power to overrule authority. .
In relation to these two texts the study of the true story Wild Swans also demonstrates similar representations of power. The main power in the book is Mao Tse-Tung; he is represented as a very powerful figure, and is still worshipped to this day, nearly half a century after his reign.
