Madison Character Analysis

Having finally learned how to play political games, Hamilton asks Jefferson and Madison to dinner—and behind closed doors, the three men agree to create a national bank. When Burr learns that Hamilton has successfully “talked less” and “smiled more,” he is outraged. But though the Founding Fathers, acting as audience surrogates, push Burr to explain his outrage, this stunning moment reveals that there is absolutely nothing behind his desire for power. Burr does not “stand” for any principle besides his own reputation; he will not “fall” for anything besides his own sense of honor. And so while Hamilton, Washington, Jefferson, and Madison all want to make real change, Burr cares more about being remembered than about what he is remembered for.

That selfishness is evident in the brilliant pacing of these lyrics. Burr’s “I” stands alone: in a show that moves at lightning speed, the slowness with which Burr refers to himself is striking. And as with other repeated phrases (“satisfied,” “helpless,” “wait for it”), the words “the room where it happens” become almost meaningless as Burr chants them ad nauseum. But perhaps most tellingly of all is the word “it.” Burr doesn’t care what happens—he just cares about his own proximity. In contrast to Hamilton’s fervent beliefs, “The Room Where It Happens” represents an entirely anti-democratic view of legacy.