Existential themes in the movie V for Vendetta Essay

Existential themes in the movie V for Vendetta - Essay Example Specifically, we will explore the existential concept of the Individual versus the Herd from the perspective of Hermann Hesse. From this facet of philosophy, we will relate examine and relate the existential concept of the Individual versus the Herd and the stand of V against Norsefire. Existential Concept of the Herd A story would never be complete without the plot, setting, and the characters or subjects. In the same way, a literary work would not be sufficient if it does not include the different parts of a plot. Normally, a plot would have the following parts: the exposition, which is the beginning of the story. Second would be the rising action wherein the acts leading to the climax is developed. Within this part, the conflict of the story and dilemmas that result to the climax are introduced. The climax, which is normally the highest point of the story since the effect of the conflict, would now reach the tipping point. After which, the events happening after the climax shall b e the content of the falling action. Lastly, a conflict resolution would end the plot, and the story altogether. It is to be noted though that each part of the plot does not need to happen in a chronological and sequential manner. What is necessary is that all the parts are essentially present. One can never do away with the conflict. Without a conflict, there seems to be no reason to tell a story. The conflict then is the reason why there is a story in the first place. As with every literary work, there exists a conflict, and around that struggle is where the story would basically revolve. There are various kinds of existential theories in literature; however, this paper calls for the discussion of only one kind. The author of this paper chose to extensively provide an analysis of the film V for Vendetta, in relation to the existential literary theme Individual vs. The Herd. This literary theme is also more commonly known as man versus society. The famous existentialist philosopher Jean Jacques-Rosseau wrote in his masterpiece The Social Contract, â€Å"Man is born free, but everywhere he is in chains.† The herd or the society, in this case, is the persona that keeps man in chains. For the society, the ideology, beliefs and practices of the majority are considered as the common good, hence, it must be followed. In this kind of environment, the voice of the individual should stand in conformity to the community. The stand of the individual who dares to be different does not stand a chance against the influence of the commanding majority. In the film V for Vendetta, the government aims to attain a perfect Fascist Unity. In this kind of society, if you do not conform, then you shall be considered as an outcast, unwelcome, and even tortured for being different. To be or not to be part of the herd would be the ultimate decision that could spell a remarkable difference in an individual’s life. The Concept of Fascist Unity in V for Vendetta â€Å"Stre ngth through unity, unity through faith!† Perhaps the strongest message, what would make it the