Topic > Mind Control in "The Circle" by Dave Eggers

IndexIntroductionContextIsolation and the Erosion of Healthy RelationshipsRelationships in Ruin: Mae's DisintegrationMae's Total Surrender to Mind ControlConclusionReferencesIntroductionIn the Age of Rapid Technological Advances and Omnipresence of digital connectivity, the concept of mind control has taken on a new and disturbing dimension. The intricate interplay between external influences and individual action has become the subject of profound exploration in contemporary literature. Dave Eggers' novel, "The Circle," offers a compelling narrative that delves into the depths of mind control, weaving a story of psychological manipulation and the erosion of personal autonomy. This essay takes a journey through the labyrinthine narrative of "The Circle", where the protagonist, Mae Holland, becomes trapped in the intricate web of The Circle company. Mae's experiences serve as an illuminating case study, shedding light on the intricate processes through which an individual's thoughts can be harnessed and manipulated, leading to the erosion of personal agency. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayContextAt the heart of the novel is the premise that the human mind can be controlled once an individual begins to accept external information as an indisputable truth. This surrender to outside influence is the initial step in the mind control process. When individuals begin to believe in the veracity of external messages, they inadvertently open themselves to manipulation of their beliefs and opinions. Mae's trajectory in "The Circle" exemplifies this phenomenon as she progressively succumbs to the persuasive tactics employed by The Circle company. From the beginning, Mae presents herself to others in a way that aligns with her desired public image. This self-presentation is a key element in the mind control narrative, illustrating how individuals can be tricked into conforming to a prescribed persona. In Mae's case, her transformation is marked by a conscious effort to mold herself into the image of the Circle's ideal employee, a transformation driven by her desire for acceptance and success within the company. This initial acquiescence to the company's demands sets the stage for his further descent into mind control. The Circle, through its seductive charm and promises of social improvement, traps Mae in a psychological game that gradually desensitizes her and erodes her sense of conscience. The company's strategic manipulation of her values, beliefs, and behaviors results in Mae's detachment from her most intimate relationships. The profound transformation of Mae's character, from an individual driven by her own will to a compliant and controlled figure, serves as a testament to the power of mind control within narrative. Isolation and erosion of healthy relationships. Healthy relationships, especially those cultivated during formative periods. years, play a fundamental role in shaping an individual's character and worldview. They satisfy the innate human need for acceptance, connection and belonging. However, in Dave Eggers' "The Circle", the seemingly benevolent goal of creating a more socially connected society, as advocated by The Circle company, leads to the isolation and ultimate estrangement of the protagonist, Mae Holland, from her closest relationships . Mae's most significant relationships before the Circle are with her parents, a close-knit family unit characterized by love and support. As the novel unfolds, Mae's initial dependence onhis parents' emotional comfort begins to wane. This change is particularly evident in the decrease in her visits home, reflecting a growing detachment from the family ties that once provided her with comfort and security. Mae's evolving relationship with her parents becomes emblematic of the corrosive impact of The Circle's influence on her life. The Circle, by offering comprehensive health insurance for Mae's parents, initially appears as a savior for the family, easing their financial burdens and offering a sense of stability. However, the intrusion of SeeChange cameras into their home marks a turning point. Mae's parents, overwhelmed by the loss of privacy, seek refuge by covering up the invasive cameras. This act of resistance leads to a breakdown in communication between Mae and her parents, highlighting the company's ability to disrupt and fragment previously strong family bonds. Mae's decreased contact with her parents is symptomatic of the broader isolationist effects of the Circle's technologies and philosophies. The company's relentless pursuit of transparency and connection paradoxically results in the alienation of individuals from their loved ones. In Mae's case, the company's intrusion into her personal life not only compromises her relationship with her parents, but also leads to a tragic accident that severs their bond forever. Relationships in Ruin: Mae's Disintegration Mae's relationships crumble further when she becomes entangled in The Circle's web, ultimately resulting in their disintegration and her transformation into a tool of the company's mind control agenda. The deterioration of her bonds with her ex-boyfriend Mercer, her close friend Annie, and others highlights the profound impact of the Circle's influence on her interpersonal dynamics. Mercer, from the beginning of Mae's involvement with the Club, emerges as a clear opponent of the company's practices and ethics. It offers a scathing critique of the digital age's obsession with surveillance, gossip, and the erosion of true human communication. Mercer's steadfast resistance to the Circle's pervasive influence puts him at odds with Mae, setting the stage for the gradual erosion of their relationship. Over the course of the narrative, Mercer's attempts to distance himself from technology and social surveillance become increasingly desperate. He retreats to remote locations in an attempt to evade the invasion of the digital sphere. Mae's relentless efforts to convince him to conform to the Circle's ideals ultimately lead to Mercer's tragic end. Her suicide is a stark reminder of the consequences of Mae's indifference and her loyalty to the company's agenda. Likewise, Mae's friendship with Annie, once a source of support and camaraderie, deteriorates as her rise through the Circle's ranks creates jealousy and competition between the two. women. Annie's sense of insecurity and envy, exacerbated by Mae's rapid success, culminates in her involvement in a project that triggers a severe nervous breakdown. Mae's response to Annie's suffering further highlights her transformation into a corporate pawn, as she prioritizes her own ambitions over her friend's well-being. Mae's total surrender to mind control As the narrative unfolds, Mae undergoes a profound transformation, completely succumbing to the influence and agenda. His surrender to mind control becomes complete, resulting in a detachment from his previous relationships, loss of empathy, and immersion in the company's ideology. Mae's detachment from her core relationships, including her parents, Mercer and Annie, serves as a touching reflection of her complete immersion in the world of The Circle. His growing concern, 1677.