Will the Circle Be Unbroken in Bioshock Infinite?
In the critically acclaimed video game Bioshock Infinite, the phrase “Will the circle be unbroken” takes on a profound significance, serving as a haunting reminder of the cyclical nature of history and the struggle for freedom. This article delves into the various aspects of the game where this phrase is featured, exploring its symbolism and impact on the narrative.
The phrase “Will the circle be unbroken” originates from a traditional American folk song, which in turn is based on the biblical passage from Ecclesiastes 1:9. It speaks to the idea of a continuous cycle, suggesting that certain events or patterns are destined to repeat themselves. In Bioshock Infinite, this concept is used to underscore the cyclic nature of oppression and resistance that has plagued Columbia, the game’s fictional setting.
One of the most notable appearances of the phrase is during the game’s opening moments. As the player character, Booker DeWitt, is transported to Columbia, the phrase is whispered into his ear by a mysterious figure. This sets the stage for the game’s central conflict, where Booker is tasked with rescuing a young woman named Elizabeth from the clutches of the oppressive government led by the antagonist, Comstock.
Throughout the game, “Will the circle be unbroken” is used as a recurring motif, highlighting the cyclical nature of Columbia’s history. The game’s setting is a dystopian version of America in the 1910s, where the government has taken on a fanatical religious stance, oppressing its citizens and enforcing strict social norms. The player is constantly reminded of the past, as the game’s narrative intertwines with the history of Columbia, revealing the roots of its current state.
One of the most powerful moments involving the phrase occurs during a confrontation with Comstock. As the player battles their way through his compound, they come across a room filled with portraits of Columbia’s leaders throughout history. The phrase is inscribed on the walls, serving as a reminder that the cycle of oppression has been unbroken for generations. This not only emphasizes the game’s themes of resistance and liberation but also highlights the futility of the oppressed fighting against an endless cycle of oppression.
Another significant appearance of the phrase is during the game’s ending. After a climactic battle, the player discovers that Elizabeth has been manipulating the game’s events from the beginning. The phrase is used to signify the cyclical nature of the game’s narrative, as Elizabeth’s actions have led to a new beginning for Columbia, but the potential for future oppression still looms.
In conclusion, “Will the circle be unbroken” in Bioshock Infinite serves as a powerful symbol of the cyclical nature of history and the struggle for freedom. The phrase is used throughout the game to underscore the game’s themes of resistance, liberation, and the futility of endless cycles of oppression. By incorporating this phrase into the game’s narrative, Bioshock Infinite creates a memorable and thought-provoking experience that challenges players to consider the consequences of their actions and the cyclical nature of human history.
