Why Does Edward Said Admire Joseph Conrad?
Introduction to Culture and Imperialism is a notable literary work by Edward Said. 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, and various study materials of Introduction to Culture and Imperialism.
Answer
Why does Edward Said admire Joseph Conrad?
Edward Said (1935–2003) was a cultural theorist. In “Culture and Imperialism” (1993), he studied Joseph Conrad (1857–1924). Said admired Conrad for his honesty. He clearly showed the cruelty of the empire. Though limited, Conrad’s view was deep. Said praised his moral insight and literary power. Let us explore why Said respected him.
Reveals Imperial Cruelty: Said admired how Conrad exposed the empire’s damage. In “Heart of Darkness” (1899), he showed greed and violence. He presented imperialism as dark and hollow. Said praised this painful honesty. He explained it with this quote:
“Conrad’s novel embodies the same paternalistic arrogance of imperialism that it mocks…”
This shows Conrad mocked the lies of the empire. He showed both its control and its weakness. Said valued this bold insight.
Stuck Inside Empire: Though Conrad judged the empire, he stayed within it. Said believed this made his work real. He did not pretend to have solutions. He admitted fear and moral confusion. Said explained this in a strong quote:
“What Conrad cannot see is an alternative to this cruel tautology.”
This means Conrad showed pain but no escape. Said admired this truthfulness, not false hope. That made his work more honest and lasting.