When we think about Rudyard Kipling’s “The Man Who Would Be King,” our minds often jump to themes of imperialism, adventure, and the clash of cultures. However, one intriguing aspect that often gets overlooked is the Masonic imagery woven throughout the narrative. This essay aims to delve into how these symbols not only enrich the story but also offer a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations and the larger commentary on colonialism and power dynamics.
Understanding Freemasonry
Before we dive into Kipling’s work, it’s essential to grasp what Freemasonry is all about. At its core, Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that espouses moral values and promotes social welfare among its members. It’s filled with rituals, symbols, and allegories that are designed to impart wisdom about self-improvement and ethical living. The Masonic imagery in “The Man Who Would Be King” serves as both an allegory for personal transformation and a critique of British imperialistic tendencies.
The Journey of the Two Kings
The protagonists, Daniel Dravot and Peachey Carnehan, embark on an audacious journey into Afghanistan with dreams of establishing themselves as kings. Their mission can be seen as a metaphorical quest for enlightenment akin to a Masonic journey where initiates seek knowledge through trials and tribulations. They begin their adventure armed with confidence—akin to new initiates stepping into a lodge—and soon find themselves in over their heads when they face the complexities of real power.
Kipling uses Masonic symbolism here to illustrate their transformation from adventurous men seeking fortune to rulers who face moral dilemmas that challenge their humanity. As they gain followers among local tribesmen, they are initially welcomed almost like demigods—mirroring how masons might view themselves as enlightened beings within their brotherhood.
The Symbolism of Light and Darkness
Masons hold light in high regard; it symbolizes knowledge and truth. In contrast, darkness represents ignorance or chaos—a theme prevalent in Kipling’s tale. The characters’ initial ascent mirrors light breaking through darkness: they are seen as saviors by those they rule over at first. However, as Dravot’s true nature emerges—his arrogance fueling tyranny—the once-clear distinction between light (enlightenment) and darkness (tyranny) begins to blur.
This duality encapsulates a vital critique of colonial attitudes: while British colonialists often viewed themselves as bearers of civilization (light), Kipling exposes how this self-image can devolve into tyranny (darkness). Dravot’s eventual downfall illustrates this point poignantly; he becomes consumed by his own hubris, falling prey to his darker instincts just like any fallen initiate who loses sight of the guiding principles outlined in Masonic teachings.
The Role of Rituals
Masonic rituals are another significant element reflected in Kipling’s narrative structure. The initiation process in Freemasonry involves numerous rites meant to symbolize rebirth or personal growth through trials—a concept mirrored by Dravot’s claiming kingship among the local tribesmen after supposedly performing miracles.
While he starts off intending genuine governance based on mutual respect—much like a newly initiated Mason pledged towards brotherhood—the reality soon reveals itself when his actions turn tyrannical due to unchecked power.
The Significance of Brotherhood
Another aspect worth exploring is the bond between Dravot and Carnehan which echoes ideals prevalent within Freemason communities regarding brotherhood. Their relationship begins robustly; each supports one another like brothers united under common goals—that unyielding camaraderie ultimately shapes much success until betrayal disrupts harmony among them later down paths dictated by greed versus loyalty.
Yet what stands out poignantly here lies beneath surface-level camaraderie: as much as Kipling romanticizes male bonding throughout different parts within narrative arc—from moments shared across treacherous landscapes adorned with grandeur—to demise stemming from ambition gone astray—it reveals society’s complex interdependence between human connections & ambitions leading toward chaos more so than fulfilling aspirations rooted within altruistic principles upheld traditionally amidst masons forming lifelong friendships built upon trust & commitment!
Conclusion: A Broader Reflection on Imperialism
In conclusion, examining “The Man Who Would Be King” through the lens of Masonic imagery offers us profound insights not just into individual character arcs but broader societal critiques regarding imperialist ideologies masking underlying moral failings waiting beneath glitzy facades! By utilizing symbols associated with Freemasonry—including concepts around brotherhood/light vs darkness/rituals—we unveil layers enhancing meaning behind seemingly straightforward adventures laden with irony questioning supposed nobility driving colonization ventures historically entwined deeply entwined global struggles shaping legacies felt today still reflecting lessons learned through literature deserving careful contemplation!
References
- Kipling, Rudyard. “The Man Who Would Be King.” In *The Jungle Book*. Macmillan & Co., 1894.
- Mackey, Albert G. *Encyclopedia of Freemasonry*. 1917 edition.
- Sullivan, John W., ed. *The History Of Freemasonry*. George Allen & Unwin Ltd., 1974.
- Pahlow-Sharpe, T.W.A., “Masons And The British Empire.” Journal Of Colonial Studies 45(3), 2011: pp 256-278.
- Coxhead H.M., “Symbolism And Rites In World Literature.” Literature Review Quarterly 12(1), Spring 2020: pp 112-134.