On the basis of two of Joseph Conrad's early writings, this paper tries to examine the effects of colonialism on the Westerner, as Conrad depicted them. The first object of this analysis will be the short story “An Outpost of Progress”. Questions that will be addressed are the origin of the influences, their nature and their results as well as the depiction of the protagonists, their environment and their interaction. Secondly, this paper will attempt to compare the occurring patterns of the short story to Conrad’s most prominent work, the novel “Heart of Darkness”. The question whether the short story can actually be compared to the novel at all, and finally the reconsideration of the popular thesis that “An Outpost of Progress” merely represents a sketch for “Heart of Darkness” will form the latter part of the analysis.
Table of Contents
- Preface
- "An Outpost of Progress" – Analysis
- Characterization of the Protagonists and their Development
- Progress and its Victims
- "Heart of Darkness" and "An Outpost of Progress" – Comparison
- Synopsis
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the effects of colonialism on Western colonizers, as depicted by Joseph Conrad in his short story "An Outpost of Progress." It analyzes the influences on the colonizers, their nature and consequences, and the portrayal of the protagonists within their environment. A comparison with Conrad's "Heart of Darkness" is also undertaken, questioning the relationship between the two works.
- The impact of colonialism on the colonizer's psyche.
- The portrayal of colonial incompetence and its consequences.
- The influence of colonial ideology on the colonizers' behavior.
- A comparison of "An Outpost of Progress" and "Heart of Darkness."
- The deconstruction of the civilizing mission narrative.
Chapter Summaries
Preface: The preface establishes the historical context of colonialism, highlighting the prevalent feeling of superiority among colonizers and the justification of exploitation under the guise of cultural improvement. It contrasts the common focus on the colonized with the less explored impact of the colony on the colonizer, introducing the paper's aim to examine this overlooked aspect through Conrad's works. The influence of Victorian anthropology on literature and its anxieties regarding cross-cultural contact are also discussed, setting the stage for the analysis of Conrad's portrayal of colonial encounters and their potential for degeneration.
"An Outpost of Progress" – Analysis: This chapter provides a detailed analysis of Conrad's "An Outpost of Progress," focusing on the impact of the colonial experience on the two main characters, Kayerts and Carlier. The analysis delves into their character development (or regression), examining how their initial incompetence and susceptibility to the anxieties of their situation are exacerbated by their exposure to the realities and ideology of colonialism. Their interactions and responses to the environment shed light on the psychological toll of colonial rule on those who ostensibly represent its power.
"Heart of Darkness" and "An Outpost of Progress" – Comparison: This section would compare the thematic and narrative elements of "An Outpost of Progress" with Conrad's more famous novel, "Heart of Darkness." The comparison would likely explore similarities and differences in the portrayal of colonial encounters, the psychological impact on the colonizers, and the critique of colonial ideology. It would also address the question of whether "An Outpost of Progress" serves as a precursor or sketch for "Heart of Darkness."
Keywords
Colonialism, Postcolonialism, Joseph Conrad, "An Outpost of Progress," "Heart of Darkness," colonial impact on the colonizer, psychological effects, incompetence, ideology, civilizing mission, Victorian anthropology.
Frequently Asked Questions: An Outpost of Progress - A Language Preview
What is this document?
This document is a language preview providing a comprehensive overview of a paper analyzing Joseph Conrad's short story, "An Outpost of Progress." It includes the table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What is the main focus of the paper?
The paper examines the effects of colonialism on the Western colonizers themselves, specifically focusing on the psychological and behavioral impacts depicted in Conrad's "An Outpost of Progress." It contrasts the common focus on the colonized with the less explored impact on the colonizers.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
Key themes include the impact of colonialism on the colonizer's psyche, the portrayal of colonial incompetence and its consequences, the influence of colonial ideology on colonizers' behavior, and a comparison with Conrad's "Heart of Darkness." The deconstruction of the civilizing mission narrative is also a central theme.
What works are compared in the paper?
The paper primarily analyzes Joseph Conrad's "An Outpost of Progress," and compares its themes and narrative elements with his more famous novel, "Heart of Darkness."
What is covered in the "An Outpost of Progress" analysis chapter?
This chapter delves into a detailed analysis of the story, focusing on the impact of the colonial experience on the main characters, Kayerts and Carlier. It examines their character development (or regression), their interactions, and their responses to the colonial environment, highlighting the psychological toll of colonial rule.
What is the purpose of comparing "An Outpost of Progress" and "Heart of Darkness"?
The comparison explores similarities and differences in the portrayal of colonial encounters, the psychological impact on the colonizers, and critiques of colonial ideology. It also investigates whether "An Outpost of Progress" serves as a precursor or sketch for "Heart of Darkness."
What historical context is established in the preface?
The preface sets the historical context of colonialism, highlighting the colonizers' sense of superiority and the justification of exploitation under the guise of cultural improvement. It introduces the paper's aim to examine the overlooked impact of the colony on the colonizer, and discusses the influence of Victorian anthropology on literature and its anxieties regarding cross-cultural contact.
What are the keywords associated with this paper?
Keywords include Colonialism, Postcolonialism, Joseph Conrad, "An Outpost of Progress," "Heart of Darkness," colonial impact on the colonizer, psychological effects, incompetence, ideology, civilizing mission, and Victorian anthropology.
What type of analysis is employed in this paper?
The paper employs a thematic and comparative analysis, focusing on the psychological and behavioral effects of colonialism on the colonizers, using literary criticism and historical context.
- Quote paper
- Sebastian Langner (Author), 2008, Joseph Conrad’s "An Outpost of Progress" and "Heart of Darkness". Influences on the Colonizer, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/281410
