Mad Men: Why did Don make Roger walk up the stairs?

In the TV series "Mad Men," there is a significant scene where Don Draper makes Roger Sterling walk up the stairs instead of taking the elevator. The episode, "Red in the Face," focuses on the power dynamics and complex relationship between Don and Roger. The act of making Roger climb the stairs holds symbolic meaning, representing dominance, control, and the struggle for power within the workplace. Don's motivations for this action can be interpreted in several ways, including asserting dominance, deflecting vulnerability, and establishing control. The scene also highlights the contrasting personalities of Don and Roger and their competitive nature. Overall, making Roger walk up the stairs serves as a reflection of power dynamics, personal growth, and the clash between tradition and progress.Analysis:The act of making Roger walk up the stairs in "Mad Men" holds multiple layers of meaning, reflecting the intricate power dynamics and character motivations within the series. One possible theory behind Don's decision is the display of dominance. By making Roger physically exert himself and climb the stairs, Don establishes his superiority and control over his colleague. This interpretation aligns with the recurring theme of power struggles within the advertising industry and Don's need to assert his dominance.Another theory is the deflection of vulnerability. Don may have wanted to divert attention from his own potential feelings of sickness or weakness after the night of heavy drinking and indulgence. Making Roger climb the stairs allows Don to portray strength and resilience, presenting himself as unaffected while Roger struggles. This theory suggests that Don's decision was motivated by self-preservation and a desire to maintain a composed facade.Additionally, the act of making Roger climb the stairs can be seen as an assertion of control. Don strategically orchestrates the situation by paying the elevator operator and making Roger indulge in food and alcohol during their lunch. By controlling the circumstances and ensuring the elevator is out of order upon their return, Don establishes his authority over Roger in a subtle yet impactful manner. This theory highlights Don's manipulative nature and his ability to navigate office politics and exert control over his colleagues.The contrasting personalities of Don and Roger add another layer of complexity to the scene. Don is portrayed as confident, self-assured, and able to handle the night's indulgences without physical repercussions. On the other hand, Roger is depicted as more carefree and laid-back, but also prone to physical discomfort. The scene showcases the stark differences between the characters, both in terms of their personalities and their ability to handle adversity.Furthermore, the act of making Roger walk up the stairs can be seen as symbolic of the evolving nature of the advertising industry during that era. Roger represents the old guard, clinging to traditional values and struggling to adapt to a changing world. Making him physically climb the stairs can be interpreted as a metaphor for his diminishing significance within the firm and his struggle to keep up with the shifting dynamics of the industry. In contrast, Don embodies the innovative future and embraces change, evident in his ability to handle the night's indulgences and his strategic maneuvering within the workplace.In conclusion, the act of making Roger walk up the stairs in "Mad Men" holds deeper symbolism and meaning within the context of the series. It represents power dynamics, dominance, control, and the clash between tradition and progress. Don's motivations behind this action can be interpreted in various ways, including asserting dominance, deflecting vulnerability, and establishing control. The scene highlights the contrasting personalities of Don and Roger and explores the complex relationships and power struggles within the workplace. Ultimately, making Roger climb the stairs serves as a reflection of the dynamics between the characters and the broader themes of power, personal growth, and the changing landscape of the advertising industry in "Mad Men."