The Enigmatic Golden Rule: Exploring Its Influence in the Eerie House of Usher

Warning: Spoilers ahead for The Fall of the House of Usher.

Summary

"The Fall of the House of Usher" skillfully intertwines the "Golden Rule" concept from "Wizard of Id" to establish connections between the fantastical and dark realms. The underlying message of the "Golden Rule" highlights how those who possess wealth hold the authority, reflecting the power dynamics within the narrative of the show.

The Usher family's belief in their wealth as a shield exposes their vulnerability to the consequences of defying the rule.

In the opening episodes of The Fall of The House of Usher, there are subtle references to The Wizard of Id and its "Golden Rule." Initially insignificant, these references become crucial to the show's overarching storyline. The Wizard of Id, created by American cartoonists Brant Parker and Johnny Hart, is a widely recognized comic strip that has been featured in numerous daily newspapers since the early 1960s. It depicts the everyday obstacles faced by the comical residents of a medieval kingdom known as Id.

Wizard Of Id's Golden Rule Is That "Whoever Has The Gold Makes The Rules"

To maintain a lighthearted tone, the comic strip rarely takes itself too seriously. However, The Fall of the House of Usher cleverly incorporates one of its designated "Golden Rules" in the storyline, drawing thought-provoking connections between the whimsical world of Id and the dark and eerie themes pervasive in Edgar Allan Poe's works. The mysterious nature of this golden rule in the Mike Flanagan horror show also leaves viewers intrigued, wondering about its significance within the series. Consequently, presented here is an explanation of Wizard of Id's golden rule and its correlation with the character developments in The Fall of the House of Usher.

In episode 2 of The Fall of the House of Usher, Prospero is the first character to mention Wizard of Id's Golden Rule. However, before he can finish reciting it, the scene abruptly shifts to Roderick, who also recalls the same rule. Even as Roderick starts uttering the rule by explaining how Prospero acquired it from him, his sentence is cut off. A flashback unveils that Roderick himself received it from his former boss, Rufus Griswold, who had a picture of the rule displayed prominently outside his office. During this flashback scene, it is revealed that Roderick first encountered the golden rule, "Whoever has the gold makes the rules," on a Wizard of Id poster situated outside Griswold's office, just moments before he pitched Ligodone to him.

How The "Golden Rule" Applies To Roderick & The Usher Family's Dynasty

In any given situation, those with greater financial leverage hold the power to dictate terms and exert authority over others. Prospero takes pride in this golden rule, recognizing his superior wealth and influence among his friends. However, his dominance is challenged by his father, Roderick, who possesses even greater wealth, making him the true rulemaker. Yet, Roderick himself is not immune, having once been overshadowed by his former boss, Griswold, who held all the riches. In securing his position as the all-powerful rulemaker, Roderick had to wrest the gold from Griswold.

The Usher family dynasty also adheres to the golden rule, believing that their wealth and influence will forever shield them from the consequences of their ethically and morally questionable actions. However, they fail to realize that regardless of their wealth and power, there will always be someone who challenges the rule and takes it all away from them. For instance, Roderick and Madeline defy the rule by overpowering Griswold despite having less gold than him. Their rebellion, as witnessed in The Fall of the House of Usher, renders them vulnerable to Verna, who ultimately punishes them for sacrificing their integrity for material wealth.