The Chief and The Grocer

A big distinction between the grocer and the Chief as explained by Lerner is their desires. The Chief was content with his role in society saying, “What could be asked more.” (23) On the other hand, the Grocer lived in an “expansive world” with imaginings. Because of their differing environments, they both lived within different ethos. As Lerner describes it, “Where the Chief contented, the Grocer is restless.” (23) Whereas the Grocer’s struggle was opening the village to modernity, the Chief’s struggle was centered around keeping the village closed off by preaching traditional, conservative values. The Grocer’s skeptical mindset shook the established orders of the village. The modernization of Balgat is dependent on the Grocer and his ideal. Without his unsettling of the village’s cultural norms the community would still be static and unenlightened. Although the Grocer was a marginalized figure in the community, the eventual fulfillment of his expansive imaginings turned him into a prophet. Even the Chief’s sons set out to be grocers in accordance with his legacy. This story helped reinforce Max Weber’s idea of legitimizing charismatic authority. The Grocer has no title or throne, he is beloved due to his beliefs and values. The people of Balgat went to him regarding their issues and now perceive him as a prophet because of his differences. He was able to see the world around him with a new perspective that enlightened his people and eventually brought them a brighter future. He is their hero and therefore holds the highest type of charismatic authority amongst Balgat.

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