- The dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of moderation
- The destructive effects of political corruption
- The power of oratory and the dangers of mob violence
- The idea that violence begets violence
- The importance of honour and loyalty
The play also makes some observations on the nature of power:
- Power can be dangerous, it can corrupt and lead to tyranny
- The price of power is often high
- Power is often fleeting, it can easily be lost
- The common people ultimately hold the real power