A Servant when he Reigneth by Rudyard Kipling
The work explores the theme of power and its corrupting influence, particularly focusing on the paradox of a servant ascending to a position of authority. It begins by referencing a biblical proverb that highlights four societal disruptions, with the servant's rise to power being the most significant. The narrative illustrates the chaos and confusion that ensue when someone unqualified assumes leadership. The servant, now a ruler, is characterized by a lack of responsibility and an inclination towards disorder. His actions are impulsive, and he is depicted as being more concerned with displaying power than exercising it wisely. The text critiques his inability to learn from his past experiences as a servant, suggesting that he continues to evade accountability by blaming others for his failures. The work further delves into the servant's superficial commitments and fragile trust, indicating that his loyalty is easily swayed by external pressures. This instability renders him more of a slave to his own insecurities and the whims of the crowd than a true leader. The overarching message conveys a warning about the dangers of placing unworthy individuals in positions of power, emphasizing that their rule can lead to greater turmoil and suffering for society.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1950 · Genre: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical · 426 words
First lines
(For three things the earth is disquieted, and for four / which it cannot bear: for a servant when he reigneth; and / a fool when he is filled with meat; for an odious woman / when she is married; and an handmaid that is heir to her / mistress. -- PROV. XXX. 21, 22, 23.)
Three things make earth unquiet, / And four she cannot brook; / The godly Agur counted them / And put them in a book -- / Those Four Tremendous Curses / With which mankind is cursed: / But a Servant when He Reigneth / Old Agur counted first.
What this Textopian page supports
A Servant when he Reigneth is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1950 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1950 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Satire, Philosophical, Allegory, Social Commentary
- Length: 426 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Servant when he Reigneth by Rudyard Kipling
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and meter typical of poetry.
- Satire — The poem critiques social hierarchies and the absurdity of power dynamics, characteristic of satirical literature.
- Philosophical — It explores themes of power, responsibility, and human nature, prompting reflection on societal structures.
- Allegory — The poem uses symbolic elements to convey deeper meanings about authority and servitude.
Tags
power · servitude · authority · confusion · foolishness · marriage · discontent · judgment · responsibility · betrayal · hypocrisy · leadership