There are various examples of people throughout history who have had the upper hand over others and abused the power they had to negatively impact or control the lives of others. others. Power being defined as the capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events and abuse, i.e. the use of something for nefarious purposes or in a bad goal. Suzanne Collins illustrates power and abuse in various ways throughout her novel "The Hunger Games." This intense novel takes place after a rebellion in North America has destroyed the country, divided into 12 districts and controlled by the Capitol. Katniss Everdeen is the main protagonist and is from the poverty stricken District 12, completely opposite the Capitol which is the place rich in wealth and power over the 12 districts. Each year, one man and one woman between the ages of 12 and 18 from each district are chosen and sent to the Capitol to participate in the bloodbath called "The Hunger Games" to show that the Capitol is the one with the power and to stop a rebellion against them. This essay will explore the themes of power and abuse that are demonstrated throughout The Hunger Games. Society and class play a major role in The Huger Games. The Capitol, being the richest "district", has all the power to control everyone. There are also favored districts that can train their tributes to give them a better chance of winning: “Tributes from 1, 2, and 4 traditionally have this look. It's technically illegal to form tributes before they reach the Capitol, but it happens every year. In District 12, we call them Career Tributes, or simply Careers. And like no, the winner with...... middle of paper ......em" (Ch. – p. -) This shows that Katniss had a bigger impact than expected by drawing the "Star Crossed Lovers' action ended with the nightlock. The novel demonstrated the variety of ways in which power can be harnessed for selfish ends as well as used to benefit the well-being of others. The Capitol intentionally used its wealth and power to manipulate and control the districts, thereby stopping any retaliation. Katniss used her power in the form of sacrifice and loyalty to save those close to her. This led her to unwittingly become the leader of a new uprising. These two examples shown in the novel illustrate the different reins of power, one being money driven and controlling, the other being camaraderie and hopeful. The novel showed that power is not always lasting and can easily be transferred to another who demonstrates the strength to dominate. .