The Use of Power in the Hunger Games

474 Words2 Pages
Power is defined as belonging to certain groups as a result of being sorted into those groups on the basis of social structure. However, power is not an absolute force and can be manipulated and therefore shifted from one group to another, even if only temporarily. A shift in power usually depends on whether the group or individual has either found a weakness or gained a slight advantage over their higher power. Katniss Everdeen shows multiple examples of how a lesser individual can create a shift in power. Throughout the book, Katniss employs three types of power; the power of appearance, the power of shame and the power of humiliation and these events are amplified through the language that Suzanna Collins used. Although it is a shame, the fact is that in modern society, appearance partners and/or symbolises power. In the Hunger Games, Collins shows how vital it is that they make a good first impression on the sponsors for their survival in the arena and uses language that emphasises the importance of this. The first, official, time that Katniss was introduced to the people of the Capitol was at the opening ceremony. Cinna took it upon himself to make sure that Katniss and Peeta would stand out amongst the other 11 districts by incorporating synthetic fire into their costumes, an opening ceremony first. When Katniss examines herself in her costume, Collins uses the words “sensational” and “deadliest” in the same sentence. These two words contrast with each other and assist in illustrating for the reader just how powerful the costume is, that even cynical Katniss is able to make this assessment. As their chariot is drawn towards the city circle, the author describes the power that their appearance has on the crowd. The crowd is being described as “going nuts” and it is explained that the crowd took some of their time to look up Katniss’ first name in the program
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