The grand finale of HBO’s “Succession” left many viewers discussing the series’ many themes, one of which is the patriarchy. Although not explicitly discussed, the show portrays a family headed by Logan Roy, a media mogul, and his children. Shiv, Roman, and Kendall worked alongside their father to maintain the business empire, with Kendall hoping to dethrone him. Deniz Kandiyoti’s “Bargaining With Patriarchy” concept is relevant in understanding the series. The idea refers to the arrangement offered to women by patriarchal systems: in return for serving men, conforming to the conventions of society, and protecting their family reputation, women could benefit and enjoy limited power over other women. However, these benefits are conditional on women’s relationship with men, and if that changes, the benefits can evaporate.
Kendall’s tragic misapprehension of his position in the family highlights the price demanded by patriarchal systems, sometimes leaving supporters vulnerable to the same abuse of power they inflict on others. He mistakenly thought he was in control, believing he would inherit everything from his father, only to discover that he was as vulnerable as any other family member, especially a wife or daughter. The Roy family benefits only through Logan’s power and authority, which he meticulously controls, using everything─ manipulation, control, and money─to ensure total loyalty.
Kandiyoti illustrates that patriarchal systems eventually lead to women losing the ability to enforce the bargain that drew them to the situation in the first place, especially once new men take control. In a sense, they pay a heavy price for an earlier patriarchal agreement but cannot cash in on its promised benefits. Kendall’s tragedy deepened when he not only lost out on the corporate power he coveted but also when his siblings abandoned him. Shiv, however, the daughter of the family, understands her situation, realizing the worthlessness of her patriarchal bargain. Hence, she backed her husband as the new C.E.O., possibly achieving a new arrangement that provides the benefits and power denied her.
