I've always been a lover of classic Broadway shows. I adore the musical numbers, the themes, and the glorious energy displayed on stage. I'm amazed at great songwriters' ability to teach us as they entertain, with numbers like "There Are Worse Things I Could Do" from Grease or "You've Got to Be Carefully Taught" from South Pacific..

Lately I've had a number from Camelot running through my head. Not the usual ones, like "If Ever I Would Leave You" or "Camelot," but one a group of knights sing toward the end. These men are the backbone of their society, the guys who support the king and do the dragon slaying and maiden rescuing. They believe they should be rewarded for their hard work, but the rules in Camelot call for them to treat everyone with respect, even those these men don't consider worthy of regard.

Their unhappiness results in a rebellious song, "Fie on Goodness," which reflects a view shared by some in American society today. The knights are tired of feeling like they have to be nice. They miss the time when they called the shots, when Might made Right. Back in the day, they tell us, a strong man could do whatever his skills allowed: kill (or banish) someone he disliked, take a woman by force, or enjoy the feeling of smiting those who irritate him. Arthur's Might for Right philosophy makes them feel suppressed, and they're angry about it. 

"Eight years of kindness to your neighbor,

Making sure the meek are treated well.

Eight years of philanthropic labor,

Derry down dell,

Damn, but it's hell!"

When Mordred promises a return to the good old days, the knights follow him, bringing an end to their society.  But really, it's so much simpler to act on one's own instincts, to not worry about fairness or a code of honor or what others deserve, right? 

Make Avalon Great Again!