Colonialism in Heart of Darkness
Descent into Darkness: The Fallacies of Colonialism Present in Heart of Darkness The European colonization of Africa was intended to bring the light of civilization and European society to the darkness of an unknown and poorly understood continent. Armed with technology and ignorance to the darkness that lies in the hearts of mankind, the colonists attempted to enact their noble plan. In Heart of Darkness Conrad shows, through fiction, that the lack of moral and judicial restraints in Africa allowed for the release of the darkness from the hearts of the colonists.The whole pretence behind the European colonists operations in Africa is to "bring the light of civilization." Marlow compares the Roman and British empires in his description of the Thames river. Britain itself has "been one of the dark places of the world," but since the "Romans first came here... light came out of the river since...." Herein Conrad provides an allusion to the Roman occupation of Britain, and a historical indication of Britain's intentions and actions in Africa (Al-Dabbagh).When Marlow first arrives in the colonial zone, he notices the desolation of the Station. His observations of the machinery "decaying" and the "objectless blasting"
It is only when Marlow does leave his ship in order to retrieve Kurtz that he begins to feel the strong temptations of his dark side. in all attitudes of pain, abandonment, and despair. " Studies in the Literary Imagination. The darkness that lies in the hearts of all men, and when not kept in check by strong convictions, law, and 6morals, has the potential to overpower the individual and lead to the savagery and butchery of which Kurtz is an example (Dahl 37). While not as educated as Kurtz, Marlow shares the same thoughts and beliefs. This point, until his inevitable meeting with Kurtz, provides a test upon Marlow's beliefs and morals. Early in Marlow's adventure in Africa we are introduced to the Company's chief accountant. Kurtz, and to some degree Marlow, is the driving force in 9Conrad's Heart of Darkness. "Kurtz, Marlow, Conrad and the Human Heart of Darkness. Only when Marlow happens upon Kurtz and his stricken form does Marlow realize "the horrors" of which Kurtz speaks. Considered by the Company to be the "best agent the company ever had", Kurtz has "bartered, swindled, or stolen more ivory than all the other agents together. The accountant is dressed in white, ironed, and starched shirts.
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Acceptance Essays
