From Breaking Bad to Watchmen: Ozymandias in Popular Culture
Ozymandias, a name that has been etched in popular culture, references the character from Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem “Ozymandias.” However, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, the creators of the graphic novel Watchmen, reimagined Ozymandias as a brilliant and charismatic man who possesses the power to save the world from destruction.
In this article, we will explore the concept of Ozymandias in popular culture. We will examine the character’s evolution in various media, from literature to film, television, and graphic novels. We will also explore the themes that surround Ozymandias and his presence in popular culture.
Ozymandias in Literature
Shelley’s poem is a commentary on the inevitable decline of power and empires. It depicts the story of a king who was once powerful and ruling, but now his empire is reduced to ruins. Ironically, the only thing that remains of his empire is a statue, which has gradually decayed over time.
The character of Ozymandias in literature has drifted far from Shelley’s poem. In Watchmen, Ozymandias is portrayed as a wealthy and philanthropic businessman. However, in reality, he is far from being a savior, and his intentions are anything but noble. It is revealed that he is responsible for a catastrophic event to prevent a nuclear war.
Ozymandias in Film and Television
In recent times, Ozymandias has been a popular character in films and television. The most notable adaptation of the character is the 2013 episode of Breaking Bad titled “Ozymandias.” It depicts the character of Walter White’s hubris and how it leads to his downfall.
Another example is the 2019 HBO series Watchmen, where Ozymandias is played by Jeremy Irons. The character’s experiment with human cloning and his self-appointed god-like status is a charismatic display of his power. He perceives himself responsible for saving humanity from the brink of destruction, but his methods are convoluted.
Themes Surrounding Ozymandias
One of the many themes surrounding Ozymandias is the idea of power and the limits of human control. The character is portrayed as an individual who has acquired everything, including power and wealth. However, his quest for ultimate control results in him causing destruction.
Another theme related to Ozymandias is the idea of morality and ethics. The character’s actions usually challenge the idea of what’s good and bad. He does what he thinks is necessary to achieve his goals, but the resulting consequences raise ethical questions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, despite the diverse portrayals of Ozymandias in popular culture, the character remains a symbol of power and decadence. He represents the human need for control and the ethical dilemmas that come with it. Whether it’s Shelley’s poem or Alan Moore’s graphic novel, Ozymandias’s influence in popular culture remains undeniable.
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