Power, Poppy, and Philosophy: an Examination of The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

Chia, Meg Yi Lin (2024) Power, Poppy, and Philosophy: an Examination of The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

Fiction is always a reflection of reality regardless of its genre, however, the fantasy genre is often neglected when in discussion of realistic and authentic portrayal of characters. Often dealing with power dynamics and pursuit of ambition through ruthless means, the fantasy genre opens up the gap for exploration of power and humanity, the two that stand at odds that one must choose at the crossroads. The Poppy War by R.F Kuang presents a complex and nuanced exploration of human nature and power, reflecting on moral ambiguity in times of conflict through the protagonist and antihero Fang Runin. This study aims to examine Rin’s character in The Poppy War and investigate the dominant traits present in herself and how that affects her humanity and moral grounding throughout the novel. Through the framework of the Dominant Behavioural System (DBS) from a psychological perspective, particularly looking into authentic pride, hubristic pride, power and influence, as well as ruthless ambition. This research further ties its findings into Xunzi’s philosophical teachings of human nature to explore the interplay between power, human nature, and how an imbalance of that could cause a descent into latent factors such as mania, depression, and anxiety. Using Xunzi’s hypothesis that human nature is inherently evil in the sense that it is chaotic and self-serving, this research paper further analyses and uncovers how Rin’s pursuit of power reflects broader philosophical and psychological truths, in which the hypothesis could be proven true in the aspect of Rin’s lack of control and order on regulation and external guidance to achieve the balance in humanity and personal desires. In conclusion, this research paper uses Rin’s journey as an avenue to demonstrate how uncapped ambition exacerbates the darker tendencies and evilness of human nature, furthering the exploration of philosophy and psychology to help comprehend the realities of human nature as portrayed in The Poppy War, as well as to comprehend how this paradox of the power and humanity dynamic may serve as a cautionary tale upon reflecting on ongoing warfares and events happening in the world.