corrupt attributes conan

3 min read 11-03-2025

Conan the Barbarian, the iconic creation of Robert E. Howard, is a complex character defined not only by his brute strength and unmatched fighting prowess but also by his susceptibility to the corrupting influences of power and the attributes associated with it. While often portrayed as a simple, savage warrior, a closer examination reveals a character grappling with morality, ambition, and the seductive allure of absolute power. This article delves into the various ways corruption manifests in Conan's journey, exploring how specific attributes, like ambition and wealth, test his values and ultimately shape his destiny.

The Allure of Power: A Double-Edged Sword

Conan's unwavering ambition is arguably his most defining trait. His relentless pursuit of glory and power often leads him down morally ambiguous paths. While his motivations are sometimes rooted in survival and vengeance, the intoxicating taste of victory and the accumulation of power frequently corrupt his intentions. The acquisition of kingdoms and treasures, while initially fueling his desires for freedom and revenge, eventually becomes a goal in and of itself, sometimes overshadowing his original righteous motivations.

The Seduction of Wealth and Luxury

The wealth and luxury that accompany Conan's rise to power further complicate his character. The simple pleasures of a hearty meal and a comfortable bed evolve into extravagant feasts and opulent palaces. While he might initially reject the trappings of a king, the seductive comfort and power these possessions represent gradually erode his resolve. This shift is not always sudden but rather a gradual process, a subtle corrosion that slowly chips away at his primal simplicity.

The Weight of the Crown: A King's Burden

Becoming king, especially in the chaotic world of Hyboria, inevitably places Conan in a position where he must make difficult choices, often compromising his personal morality. The responsibility of ruling a kingdom requires compromises and actions that conflict with his more straightforward, less politically nuanced worldview. This struggle between his personal desires and the needs of his people is a constant theme throughout his saga.

The Corrupting Influence of Others: Allies and Enemies

Conan's relationships with others also contribute to the complex tapestry of his corruption. His allies, often driven by their own selfish ambitions, can subtly influence his actions and decisions. Likewise, his enemies often employ cunning schemes and underhanded tactics that test his integrity. Navigating these treacherous relationships demands shrewdness and pragmatism, sometimes forcing him to compromise his ideals. Navigating the political landscape often requires Conan to make morally questionable alliances to survive.

The Test of Loyalty and Betrayal

The recurring theme of loyalty and betrayal further complicates Conan's moral landscape. He is frequently faced with the difficult choice of remaining loyal to his friends and allies, even when their actions are morally questionable. Conversely, he often encounters treachery from those he trusts, forcing him to confront the reality that even his closest companions might succumb to corruption.

Redemption and the Barbarian's Code

Despite the numerous instances where Conan succumbs to temptation and the corrupting influence of power, he retains a core of integrity. His brutal honesty and fierce loyalty to those he genuinely cares about hint at an underlying moral compass, albeit one deeply buried beneath layers of ambition and violence. His actions, however flawed, are often driven by a sense of justice and a desire to protect the innocent. This underlying code acts as a counterbalance to the seductive pull of power, preventing his complete descent into darkness.

Conclusion: A Complex Hero in a Brutal World

Conan the Barbarian is not simply a one-dimensional hero. He is a complex figure caught between his primitive instincts and the corrupting influences of power and the attributes that come with it. His journey is a constant struggle against the seductive allure of absolute dominion, a battle he frequently loses but never completely surrenders. It is this internal conflict, this vulnerability to corruption, that makes him such a compelling and enduring character. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the ever-present possibility of moral compromise, even for the seemingly invincible.