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Rudyard Kipling’s classic tale, “The Man Who Would Be King,” tells the story of two Englishmen, Daniel Dravot and Peachey Carnehan, who set out to become kings of a remote kingdom in Afghanistan. While the story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and ambition, it also showcases the positive qualities of these two characters. Dravot and Carnehan’s journey not only highlights the negative consequences of their actions, but also the positive impacts they have on the people they encounter.

One of the main positive benefits of the man who would be king is his leadership abilities. Throughout the story, Dravot and Carnehan display their natural charisma and ability to inspire others. They easily gain the trust and loyalty of the people in the kingdom, and their words hold weight among the locals. This leadership quality is what initially helps them in achieving their ultimate goal of becoming kings. However, it also has positive effects on the people they rule over.

Under their rule, the kingdom experiences a period of prosperity and growth. Dravot and Carnehan introduce new ideas, technologies, and policies that improve the lives of the people. They bring in better farming methods, establish a system of justice, and introduce education. These efforts not only benefit the people of the kingdom, but also strengthen the kingdom itself. It becomes a more organized and functional society, leading to a better quality of life for its citizens.

Furthermore, Dravot and Carnehan’s actions also bring about positive cultural exchanges between East and West. As Englishmen, they bring their own customs, beliefs, and traditions to the kingdom. However, they also take the time to learn and appreciate the customs and beliefs of the locals. This exchange of cultures not only broadens their own perspectives, but also fosters a sense of mutual understanding and respect between the two groups. This serves as a valuable lesson in tolerance and acceptance.

Additionally, their rule also has a positive impact on the women in the kingdom. In the story, it is mentioned that the women in the kingdom were treated as property and had no rights. However, under Dravot and Carnehan’s rule, they are given a voice and are treated as equals to men. This empowerment of women is a significant and progressive step towards gender equality, and it highlights the man who would be king’s progressive views on social issues.

Lastly, Dravot and Carnehan’s journey also showcases the positive effects of ambition and perseverance. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, they continue to pursue their goal of becoming kings. This determination and resilience is not only admirable, but also serves as a reminder to never give up on one’s dreams.

In conclusion, while “The Man Who Would Be King” is ultimately a cautionary tale, it also highlights the positive attributes and effects of its main characters. Their natural leadership abilities, efforts towards societal progress, cultural exchanges, advocacy for gender equality, and perseverance all contribute to the positive impact they have on the people and culture of the kingdom. This story serves as a reminder of the potential for positive change that lies within each of us, and the importance of using our power and influence for the betterment of society.