Achebe Novel Response To Heart Of Darkness
Introduction
Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is a classic novel that explores the dark side of colonialism in Africa. However, Chinua Achebe, a Nigerian author, has criticized the book for its portrayal of African people as primitive and uncivilized. In this article, we will examine Achebe's response to Heart of Darkness and analyze his arguments against the novel.
Achebe's Criticisms
Achebe's main criticism of Heart of Darkness is that it perpetuates the stereotype of African people as savage and inferior to Europeans. He argues that Conrad's portrayal of African characters is dehumanizing and racist, and that the novel reinforces the idea that Africa is a dark, mysterious place that needs to be conquered by Europeans.
Furthermore, Achebe argues that Conrad's use of language reinforces this stereotype. For example, Conrad frequently uses animalistic imagery to describe African characters, such as referring to them as "black shadows" or "grotesque" figures. This type of language reinforces the idea that African people are less than human.
Achebe's Alternative View
Instead of perpetuating the stereotype of Africans as primitive, Achebe argues that African culture is rich and complex. In his own novels, such as Things Fall Apart, Achebe portrays African characters as fully developed individuals with their own beliefs, traditions, and values. Achebe's works challenge the notion that African people are inferior and demonstrate the complexity of African societies.
Conrad's Defense
Conrad's defenders argue that Heart of Darkness is a critique of colonialism, not a celebration of it. They point out that the novel exposes the brutality and inhumanity of European colonizers and their treatment of African people. Conrad's use of language, they argue, is a reflection of the character Marlow's own prejudices and biases, not the author's.
Conclusion
Achebe's response to Heart of Darkness is an important critique of a classic novel that has been widely read and studied for decades. His arguments challenge readers to question the assumptions and stereotypes that underlie many works of literature. While some may defend Conrad's portrayal of African characters, Achebe's alternative view offers a powerful and important counterpoint.