While a fictional story, “The Pit and the Pendulum” is based on the real events of the Spanish Inquisition, during which religious and political leaders inflicted torture upon dissidents. In the context of this story and the greater history of the Inquisition, how does power corrupt? Why does it corrupt? What effects does this have? Cite evidence from this text, your own experience, and other literature, art, or history in your answer.
Now take a closer look at the executive branch in Article II. Article II, Section 2, clause 2, identifies two powers of the president. What are those powers? (This clause also identifies congressional checks on those powers.)
