Final answer:
The relationship between power and a ruler's well-being is a recurrent theme in both literature and history, exemplified by the story of Orual, historical figures like Caligula and the observed traditions where a king's weakness could lead to their replacement. These narratives often evoke emotions such as sorrow and reflection on the nature of leadership and mortality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The dynamics of power and the ensuing consequences for leaders and rulers have been a common theme in literature and history. In the provided context, as Orual gains confidence and power, the deterioration of the king's health highlights the shifting balance of power. This parallels historical instances where a ruler's downfall, whether due to illness, loss of support, or moral degradation, can lead to a change in leadership and societal structure. For instance, the case of Caligula shows how illness may have marked the turning point from a noble leadership to a tyrannical reign, influencing his decisions and the fate of his empire.
The expectation of a ruler to maintain physical and emotional strength is depicted in various ways, such as replacing a king who shows any signs of weakness, which could be seen as a merciless tradition but also a means to ensure the community's well-being. Literary examples touching on these themes invoke different emotions in the audience, from the sorrow of witnessing a monarch's decline to the recognition of the inevitability of mortality, as reflected in the provided excerpts.