Imperialism

Definition

Imperialism is the policy or ideology of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means. This concept was deeply intertwined with the Victorian era, as the British Empire expanded its reach globally, impacting literature and societal views. Imperialism shaped narratives in various literary works, reflecting and critiquing the cultural attitudes and social contexts of the time while also giving rise to postcolonial responses that questioned and challenged these imperial narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The height of British imperialism occurred during the 19th century, when Britain controlled vast territories across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean.
2. Imperialism influenced Victorian literature significantly, as authors like Charles Dickens and Joseph Conrad explored themes related to colonial expansion and its moral implications.
3. The ideology of 'the White Man's Burden' emerged during this time, promoting the belief that Western powers had a duty to civilize non-Western peoples.
4. Criticism of imperialism began to surface towards the end of the Victorian era, with writers such as E.M. Forster expressing skepticism about colonial attitudes in their works.
5. Postcolonial fiction arose as a response to imperialism, addressing issues of identity, culture clash, and the lingering effects of colonial rule on formerly colonized nations.

Review Questions

• How did imperialism influence the themes and characters in Victorian novels?
  • Imperialism had a profound impact on Victorian novels by introducing themes of exploration, power dynamics, and cultural encounters. Many authors depicted colonial settings and characters that reflected both admiration for and criticism of imperialist endeavors. For example, novels often portrayed British characters grappling with their roles as colonizers while facing moral dilemmas regarding their treatment of indigenous peoples.
• In what ways did Victorian social attitudes towards imperialism shape the literary works produced during that period?
  • Victorian social attitudes towards imperialism were largely characterized by a sense of superiority and a belief in the civilizing mission of the British Empire. This mindset shaped literary works by embedding themes of adventure, conquest, and duty into narratives. Authors often portrayed colonial subjects through a lens that justified imperial control while simultaneously questioning its moral implications, reflecting an internal conflict within society about its imperial pursuits.
• Discuss how postcolonial fiction critiques imperialist ideologies and represents the voices of formerly colonized people.
  • Postcolonial fiction serves as a critical response to imperialist ideologies by highlighting the voices and experiences of those who were subjected to colonial rule. Authors like Chinua Achebe and Salman Rushdie challenge traditional narratives by presenting perspectives that reveal the complexities of identity and cultural heritage post-colonization. This literature not only critiques past injustices but also examines how these legacies continue to shape contemporary society, emphasizing themes of resistance, hybrid identities, and cultural reclamation.

Related terms

Colonialism: Colonialism is a practice where a country establishes control over foreign territories, often leading to the settlement of its own population in those areas.

Orientalism: Orientalism refers to the depiction of Eastern cultures by Western writers and artists, often characterized by stereotypes that reflect Western dominance and a distorted understanding of those cultures.

Decolonization: Decolonization is the process by which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, leading to the end of imperial rule and the establishment of self-governing nations.