# Power and Ambition in Democracy

> Theme guide for Democracy by Henry Adams.

Senator Ratcliffe's relentless pursuit of the presidency and his love of power illustrate how political ambition shapes personal relationships and moral compromises.

## Where it surfaces

- [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/ii): Madeleine Lee uses flattery as a tool to gain political influence, while Ratcliffe's ambition makes him vulnerable to her manipulation.
- [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/iii): Schneidekoupon's attempt to influence Ratcliffe through a dinner and Ratcliffe's strategic interest in Mrs. Lee reflect the pursuit of political and personal power.
- [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/v): Ratcliffe openly states that the pleasure of politics lies in the possession of power, and he intends to be President.
- [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/vii): Ratcliffe's relentless pursuit of control over the new President and his disdain for political life reveal his deep ambition and the personal costs of power.
- [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/ix): Ratcliffe uses the offer of a government position to manipulate Carrington and to strengthen his hold on Mrs. Lee, illustrating the use of patronage as a tool of power.
- [X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/x): Carrington warns Madeleine against Ratcliffe's vulgar ambition, which he believes would consume her life.
- [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/xi): Ratcliffe's proposal is a calculated appeal to Mrs. Lee's ambition, positioning her as a partner in his political ascent.
- [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/chapters/xii): Madeleine acknowledges her own ambition and thirst for power as motives for marrying Ratcliffe, despite her moral qualms.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/themes/power_and_ambition
- Themes index: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/democracy_se/themes