Initially, Jose Arcadio is a wise and kind leader who shares the essential knowledge needed for creation. His community flourishes by following his agricultural advice, with the trees he plants living indefinitely. However, his exposure to the world through the Gypsies' science stimulates his mind, leading to madness due to the overwhelming flood of knowledge and intriguing inventions. His fascination with mechanical devices reflects his hope that machines will one day handle all labor. "Right there across the river there are all kinds of magical instruments while we keep on living like donkeys," he tells his wife. Ursula continues to work hard, while Jose Arcadio becomes disheartened by their lack of such instruments. When she encourages him, he even teaches his children the basics of reading and writing before becoming lost again in "searching for the mythical truth of the great inventions." While knowledge can elevate humans above animals, it becomes dangerous without the essential activities that sustain society. The perfect balance of knowledge and action, exemplified by the guests' energy and the struggle against invading ants, is never achieved. As the book unfolds and knowledge becomes dominant, the lack of activity speeds up decay and hastens death.