Ken Cosgrove: Mad Men character profile

Ken Cosgrove, one of the key characters in the critically acclaimed television series Mad Men, is a complex and multifaceted individual worth delving into. Throughout the show's seven-season run, Ken evolves from a somewhat marginal figure within the Sterling Cooper advertising agency to a formidable force, both personally and professionally. By employing an analytical and theoretical approach, we can gain insights into Ken's character and examine the broader themes and concepts that his journey raises.From the outset, Ken is presented as a young and ambitious account executive. However, unlike many of his colleagues, he is not solely driven by material success and the trappings of corporate life. Ken is a writer at heart, covertly crafting and publishing short stories under the pseudonym Ben Hargrove. This secret passion exhibits his desire for creative expression, an aspect of his character that adds depth and intellectualism to his otherwise buttoned-up appearance.Ken's duality as both an advertising executive and a writer mirrors the larger tension within the series between art and commerce. While advertising is an essential industry for sustaining capitalist economies, it often involves manipulating people's desires and perpetuating mass consumerism. This conflict between creativity and commerce is further expressed through Ken's aversion to the cutthroat nature of the advertising world, ultimately leading him to resign from his position at Sterling Cooper.Interestingly, Ken's decision to leave advertising aligns with certain elements of Marxist theory. Marxist thinkers argue that capitalism alienates individuals from their creative abilities, as labor becomes disconnected from the worker's personal fulfillment. Ken's departure from the advertising industry is a form of rebellion against this alienation, as he seeks to regain control over his creativity and align his work with his personal values.Yet, even after leaving Sterling Cooper, Ken cannot escape the allure of advertising entirely. After joining a rival firm, Ken realizes that his skills can still be utilized for more noble pursuits. Alongside his promotion to Head of Account Services, Ken finds himself engaged in campaigns for the Peace Corps and environmental causes, demonstrating his commitment to using his talents for positive change.Through Ken's character progression, Mad Men also explores the theme of identity and the process of self-discovery. As Ken assimilates into the competitive world of advertising, he must grapple with the demands of the corporate environment while maintaining his authenticity. This tension prompts him to explore various roles within the industry, from account executive to writer, as he seeks to find the best fit for his talents and values.Furthermore, Ken experiences personal growth throughout the series, navigating the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. He starts as a rather reserved and mild-mannered character but evolves into someone more assertive and poised. This transformation can be attributed to Ken's developing understanding of his own worth and abilities, allowing him to assert himself more confidently within both personal and professional contexts.In sum, Ken Cosgrove's character arc in Mad Men offers a rich tapestry of themes and concepts for analysis. His conflicting desires for creative fulfillment and commercial success, rooted in the tension between art and commerce, resonate with Marxist theories of alienation. Ken's journey also underscores the importance of aligning one's work with personal values and the complex process of self-discovery and growth. By examining Ken through an analytical and theoretical lens, we can appreciate the depth and complexity that his character brings to the show.