1. The Corruption of the Scythedom

Question

• Power without accountability: The Scythedom is a powerful institution responsible for "gleaning" (permanent death) in a world where people no longer die naturally. However, Scythes are largely self-governing, which leads to abuse.
• Old Guard vs. New Order: There is a clear divide between Scythes like Faraday and Curie, who see gleaning as a solemn duty, and those like Goddard, who revel in the violence, fame, and luxury it brings.
• Goddard's corruption: Goddard represents unchecked power. He hosts mass gleanings, lives in opulence, and manipulates apprentices and rules to serve his ego. His actions show how power can corrupt when it is not held in check by ethics or empathy.

2. The Thunderhead’s Power (and Limitations)
• The Thunderhead, an all-powerful AI that governs the world fairly and peacefully, is forbidden from interfering in Scythe affairs.
• This restriction creates a loophole where the Scythedom becomes the only place where corruption can flourish, the only institution not held accountable.
• This contrast shows that power without oversight (Scythes) can be corrupted, while regulated power (Thunderhead) can remain just.

3. Corruption of Individuals
• Rowan's transformation: Rowan starts as an ethical person, but after witnessing the brutality and corruption within the Scythedom, especially under Goddard, he becomes disillusioned. His vigilante actions as Scythe Lucifer are a direct response to the abuse of power he witnessed.
• Xenocrates: The High Blade pretends to be neutral but is ultimately compromised, concerned with status and reputation more than justice. His hypocrisy shows how people in power can be corrupted even when they appear to uphold the rules.

Key Quotes
1. “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” – A theme echoed in Goddard’s character.
2. “We must be above reproach, or we fall.” – Scythe Curie’s philosophy, showing the burden of wielding power responsibly.

The Scythe Commandments
1) Thou shalt kill.
2) Thou shalt kill with no bias, bigotry, or malice aforethought.
3) Thou shalt grant an annum of immunity to the beloved of those who accept your coming, and to anyone else you deem worthy.
4) Thou shalt kill the beloved of those who resist.
5) Thou shalt serve humanity for the full span of thy days, and thy family shall have immunity as recompense for as long as you live.
6) Thou shalt lead an exemplary life in word and deed, and keep a journal of each and every day.
7) Thou shalt kill no scythe beyond thyself.
8) Thou shalt claim no earthly possessions, save thy robes, ring, and journal.
9) Thou shalt have neither spouse nor spawn.
10) Thou shalt be beholden to no laws beyond these.

What is the text about?

Who is the intended audience?

What is the purpose of the text?

What commandments have Goddard and Faraday broken? Does this make them both corrupt?

Answer 1

The text appears to analyze the themes of power, corruption, and ethics within the fictional universe of the "Scythe" series by Neal Shusterman. It addresses the dynamics at play within the Scythedom, particularly highlighting the contrasting philosophies and behaviors of various Scythes, especially Goddard and Faraday.

Intended Audience

The intended audience is likely readers of the "Scythe" series, including young adults and mature readers who enjoy speculative fiction and are interested in themes related to morality, governance, and human nature. The text caters to those familiar with the series' universe, as it references specific characters, concepts, and ethical dilemmas presented in the books.

Purpose of the Text

The purpose of the text is to critically examine the themes of corruption and accountability in the Scythedom. It seeks to shed light on how unchecked power can lead to moral decay, contrasting the behavior and philosophies of different Scythes to illustrate broader points about ethics and governance. This analysis serves to engage readers in reflection on the implications of power in society, as well as the role of individuals within systems of authority.

Commandments Broken by Goddard and Faraday

1. Goddard:

   • Commandment 1 (Thou shalt kill): While Goddard technically fulfills the requirement to glean, his mass gleanings and the enjoyment he derives from them can be seen as a betrayal of the solemn duty implied by this commandment.
   • Commandment 2 (Thou shalt kill with no bias, bigotry, or malice aforethought): Goddard's actions are driven by ego and a desire for fame, suggesting a bias and malice in how he conducts gleanings.
   • Commandment 5 (Thou shalt serve humanity for the full span of thy days): Goddard serves his own interests and desires for power above the welfare of humanity.
   • Commandment 6 (Thou shalt lead an exemplary life in word and deed): Goddard does not uphold this commandment, as his actions are reflective of corruption rather than exemplary conduct.

2. Faraday:

   • Commandment 5 (Thou shalt serve humanity for the full span of thy days): While Faraday generally adheres to this principle, his decisions, such as his later actions and disillusionment, might reflect a visible struggle with this commandment, notably as he faces the Corruption in the Scythedom.
   • Commandment 6 (Thou shalt lead an exemplary life in word and deed): Although Faraday is portrayed as a fundamentally honorable Scythe, his decisions and the environment of corruption surrounding him may force him into morally ambiguous situations.

Are They Both Corrupt?

Yes, Goddard is clearly portrayed as corrupt due to his relentless pursuit of power and fame, directly violating multiple commandments. Faraday, while primarily ethical, grapples with the implications of living within such a corrupt system, which might lead to morally ambiguous choices. Whether Faraday becomes corrupt himself is more complicated; he illustrates a struggle against the system rather than outright corruption, positioning him as a tragic figure caught between duty and the systemic failings of the Scythedom. Thus, while Goddard is undeniably corrupt, Faraday remains a complex character who wrestles with the challenges of upholding his values in a corrupted environment.