How did the Development of English Help British Imperialism
The Rise of English is a notable literary work by Terry Eagleton. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of The Rise of English.
Answer
How did the development of English help British imperialism flourish in the 19th century and onward?
Terry Eagleton (1943-present) discusses how English and British imperialism grew together in his essay “The Rise of English” (1983). He explains that the spread of English was not just a cultural change but also a clever tactic. According to Eagleton, the British used English to strengthen their empire during the 19th century. This connection between language and power played a key role in British colonial rule.
The Role of English in Educating Colonial Administrators: The British colonial administration made English studies a must for civil service officers. Eagleton discusses how this ensured British officials knew English culture well. They were expected to spread this culture among the local people. This process helped British officials act as agents of cultural imperialism.
The era of the academic establishment of English is also the era of high imperialism in England.
English as a Tool for Cultural Domination: Eagleton points out that promoting English literature was key to the British Empire’s goals. English studies were used strategically in colonies. Through literature, the British effectively controlled the cultural mindset of the colonized.
Literature as a Moral and Ideological Force: As religious authority weakened in the 19th century, literature started to fill its place as a source of moral and cultural guidance. Eagleton explains that literature was used to maintain social control and support the ideologies needed for imperial rule. The following quotation is enough to support the point:
English is constructed as a subject to carry this ideological burden from the Victorian period onwards.
In short, Eagleton’s analysis shows that English played a crucial role in British imperialism’s success. The British promoted English literature and education. This helped them spread their culture and tighten control over colonized societies.