The Flattery of the Dictator and Overcoming it through Democratizing Courage in Miguel Ángel Asturias’ El Señor Presidente

Abstract

This paper explores the relevance of contrasting flattery to frankness within El Señor Presidente by Miguel Ángel Asturias. In order to do so, the paper begins by addressing flattery within the novel as a harmful political phenomenon that, on the one hand, legitimates the discussed dictatorial regime in the text and, and, on the other, serves to dismiss the possible criticism against the autocratic regime. It becomes evident later that the shape the punishment of flattery takes within the novel- through Miguel Cara de Ángel– recalls the torment experienced by flatterers in the Divine Comedy, who are sunk in manure in Malebolge. The proposal, finally, matches the idea that flattery is both contrasted and overcome within the novel through the frankness and bravery of the student. I then conclude that, by rebuking obsequiousness and flattery as well as by honouring bravery and frankness, El Señor Presidente backs the values and political behaviours linked to the democratic process promoted within the Guatemalan Revolution.