The Criticism Of Dehumanization In Conrad's Heart Of Darkness

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In his somewhat famous criticism of Heart of Darkness, Chinua Achebe questions whether a “novel which celebrate this dehumanization, which depersonalizes a portion of the human race can be called a great work of art” (Achebe, 344). The Weavers, Heart of Darkness, and The Woman Warrior are all written works of art that critics, such as Achebe, would condemn for their dehumanization of particular groups. However, these critics overlook what makes these writings true art: their ability to have a positive impact. Works containing dehumanization do not celebrate this treatment of people; they point out flaws in society, creating awareness and the potential for change. Art is something that is created by skill and imagination that expresses important …show more content…

In the beginning of the novella, Marlow aunt praises Marlow for voyaging to Africa and “weaning those ignorant millions from their horrid ways” (Conrad, 7). The official purpose of imperialism was to bring light and civilization to other parts of the world. However, Marlow views the ideas of his aunt as ignorant, suggesting that he recognizes that this is not the true goal of imperialism (Bellal, 1). Far from its noble claims, the imperialism that Marlow describes is selfish and greedy. This is especially apparent in the way that the Europeans view ivory. “The word ‘ivory’ rang in the air, was whispered, was sighed. You would think they were praying to it” (Conrad, 27). Marlow goes as far as to describe the Europeans as pilgrims due to their obsession with ivory borders on mindless worship. It is also essential to note that the novella specifically focuses on a Belgian expedition. The Belgian king at the time, King Leopold, treated the Congo as his private treasury, and the Belgians had the reputation of being far and away the most cruel and rapacious of the colonial powers. The Belgians acted as through they wanted to use imperialism to civilize other countries but Belgian imperialism was itself far from civil (SparkNotes Editors,

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