charactersketch of king in tale of melon city
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In the tale of the melon city by Vikram Seth, the king is of unique personality. What drives him is his whimsical nature rather than reasons and logic. He is introduced ironically as 'placid' and 'just'. He has his own limitations and cant provide justice. He does not acquire a firm mind and lacks sound judgment. Rather he can easily be convinced and influenced. He asks to construct a monument of an arch as his victory and glory. Unfortunately, the arch is low that it hits his crown and he is unable to bear this. Therefore, the king asks to hang all those who made this fault.
By this, the king becomes meaningless to his subjects. It doesn't make a difference for his subjects for the king being alive or dead. When by his own decree he is hanged, the high sigh of relief surrounds the ministers. The king falls in his own trap, as he being weak and suppresses himself under pressure.