Frank vs. Claire: Who is More Self-Serving in House of Cards?

In the highly acclaimed political drama House of Cards, the characters of Frank and Claire Underwood are both mercenaries in the game of power and politics. Their self-serving natures are on full display, making them equally ruthless in pursuit of their goals.

Both Frank and Claire are Self-Interested

When it comes to self-interest, Frank and Claire stand shoulder to shoulder in their relentless drive to stay in power. They both will go to great lengths to achieve what they want, often at their opponent's expense. This is most evident in their relationship, which is a toxic mix of ambition and manipulation. Their interactions become particularly lethal when their interests don't align, which is where their self-serving nature becomes most entertaining.

Frank's Motives: Power and Revenge

Frank Underwood's actions are often driven by his desire for power and his need for revenge. He harbors a bitter resentment over the Secretary of State position that he feels was unfairly taken from him. While his ultimate goal has always been to become President, the path he took to get there was motivated by his need for retribution. His actions against Walker and his administration are a clear example of this.

Claires Goals and Their Short-Term Focus

On the other hand, Claire Underwood's goals often serve only her in the short term. Her ambitions, while undoubtedly formidable, often come at the expense of advancing their joint political careers. For example, the show does not depict both Frank and Claire benefiting from world affairs, but instead focuses on Frank's rise to power. Some of Claire's moves, such as the KKK picture scandal, not only hurt Frank but also showcased her brilliance in professional sabotage. Her reluctance to fully commit to Frank's political agenda suggests that she is not fully on his side.

Comparison and Conclusion

The season finale of the show leaves us with the question of who is more self-serving. After careful analysis, it becomes clear that both characters are ruthless in their pursuit of power, but Claire's actions often prove more antithetical to both of them than Frank's. Frank takes more responsibility for his actions, even admitting to mistakes, while Claire often refuses to take accountability for her potentially disastrous moves.

While Frank's goals are more long-term and focus on collective success, Claire's are more immediate and personal. In the grand scheme, Claire's self-serving tactics often lead to double damage for both of them.

The upcoming season will likely continue to explore this dynamic, with both Frank and Claire fiercely pursuing their individual paths to power, making for a highly anticipated and thrilling viewing experience.

Final Verdict

While both Frank and Claire are equally self-serving, Claire's tactics often prove more detrimental in the long run. As we move into the next season, the question looms: will their respective self-interests ultimately tear them apart, or will they find a way to navigate their differences and achieve their goals together?