In Heart of Darkness how does Conrad criticize imperialism?

Answer 1

In 'Heart of Darkness', the European characters constantly say that the Africans are evil and savage. By the end of the book, Conrad demonstrates that it is the Europeans in the book who commit evil and inhumane acts.

Answer 2

"Darkness" is a signifier that changes throughout the text. There is no stable meaning in the text, because it deconstructs itself. Consider the "whiteness" of the whale in Moby Dick...

Answer 3

Heart of Darkness is a Frame story. That means that it is a story within a story. The first few paragraphs of the novella tell of a ship in harbour that is waiting for the tide to turn so that they can go out to sea. During this 'dead' time one of the sailors a guy named Marlowe decides to tell the rest of the sailors a story, which is the bulk of the book. Then true to the definition of a frame story the last few paragraphs of the book describe the effect of the story had on Marlowes companions on the boat/ship that is waiting for the tide to turn.

Answer 4

Conrad criticizes Imperialism in "Heart of Darkness" by depicting its dehumanizing effects on both the colonizers and the colonized. He explores themes of exploitation, greed, and corruption in the context of European colonization of Africa, showing the moral bankruptcy and violence that accompany imperialistic ventures. By presenting characters like Kurtz who embody the worst aspects of imperialism, Conrad challenges the idea of European civilization as inherently superior and questions the legitimacy of colonial expansion.

Answer 5

the colonists are violent (apex)