Frank Underwood: A Legacy of Power or a House of Cards?

Frank Underwood, the fictional political magnate from House of Cards, is a character driven by a relentless pursuit of power. After serving as president twice, his ambitions extend far beyond the presidential seal. His motivations could be complex, ranging from the desire for eternal legacy to the subtle shadowing of successors, as well as the vengeful targeting of those who thwarted his ambitions. Let's delve into what Frank might seek after his unparalleled political tenure.

Leveraging Legacy and Power

Frank Underwood's endeavors are not just about holding onto power indefinitely; he aspires to be remembered as one of the greatest presidents in American history. His drive to cement a lasting legacy is a core component of his character. In the series, scenes depicting Frank walking through the FDR Memorial highlight his vision for immortality. Memorials and monuments serve as a form of immortality, carved in stone to stand the test of time.

Control Over Successors and Vengeance

Another crucial aspect of Underwood's ambitions is his control over his successors. He may manipulate or mentor those who follow in his footsteps to ensure his political ideology and policies continue to dominate. Moreover, his past actions often involve seeking vengeance against those who betrayed him or thwarted his ambitions. This drive for retribution underscores the complexity of his character, merging with his pursuit of power and legacy.

Seeking New Challenges and Financial Gain

Post-presidency, Frank's character might seek new challenges or roles beyond the confines of political power. He could explore lucrative opportunities in the private sector, such as advisory roles, speaking engagements, or board positions. Leveraging his extensive political network for financial gain is a logical step in his relentless pursuit of power.

The Weight of Power: Legacy vs. Fleeting Nature

Throughout the series, power is highlighted as the ultimate goal. Frank's philosophy is succinctly summarized in lines like, "Power is more important than money" and "Money is like a McMansion in Sarasota that starts falling apart after ten years. Power is the old stone building that stands for centuries." However, the true significance of his legacy is left to interpretation. Is his legacy eternal, as suggested by the Washington and Lincoln monuments in the opening sequence, or is it a house of cards ready to collapse?

One crucial theme in the show is the contrast between Western art and the Buddhist sand mandalas. Though sand mandalas are exquisite and intricate, they are ultimately destroyed upon completion. This idea parallels what Frank is trying to achieve: to leave behind a monumental legacy through his leadership, rather than a fleeting creation.

As Frank prepares to step away from the presidency, the ultimate question remains: will his legacy endure in the form of a stone monument, or will it collapse, like a house of cards? The answer lies in the consequences of his actions and the lasting impact of his decisions.

Key Takeaways:

Legacy and Power: Frank seeks to be remembered as one of the greatest presidents in American history. Control Over Successors: He aims to guide or manipulate those who succeed him to maintain his influence. Financial Gain: Frank leverages his connections for lucrative opportunities in the private sector. Impermanence vs. Eternity: The contrast between the creation of lasting legacy and the fleeting nature of art is a recurring theme in the series.

Related Keywords: Frank Underwood, House of Cards, Legacy, Power, Manipulation