Politics can be a dirty business, which people like King Augustine and Dr. Torrens learn all too well. But does that mean that anyone involved in governing is a bad person? Not all of the politicians we meet are bad—King Augustine, for example, means well, even if he succumbs to his grief, while Dr. Torrens keeps the welfare of the people in mind when he wants to reform the government. Cabbarus is their exact opposite, however, and he's the guy wielding power for most of the book.
Besides the politicians themselves, Westmark also discusses the kind of structures that should govern—and a reformed monarchy is only one option.
Questions About Politics
- Who is a politician in Westmark? Do they have to hold national power to be one?
- What kind of government do you think would be best for Westmark? What kind would you prefer to live under?
- How do you think Florian wants Westmark to be run? Is it possible for his vision to succeed?
- How do you think the political scene in Westmark will change now that King Augustine is back in power, if at all? How do you think Mickle will change Westmark when she is queen?
Chew on This
The politicians of Westmark's government often use their power for their own ends, not for the welfare of the people.
Florian and Dr. Torrens aren't polar opposites in their long-term goals for the country.