Marlowe's Voyage Of Liberation: A Post-Colonial Perspective On Heart Of Darkness

Abstract

This research paper delves into the novel "The Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad, examining it through a post-colonial lens to explore the themes of liberation and the impact of colonialism on various aspects of life. The analysis chapter investigates crucial subtopics such as the dream-like existence and passivity of the colonial settlers, the exploitation of power and the weaknesses of the colonized, the lives of subalterns, the imposition of new systems, and the loss of freedom. Additionally, it examines the darkness of life and the insignificance of native culture, along with the legitimization of invasion and occupation and the voice of resistance. The study adopts a qualitative research methodology, drawing on post-colonial theories presented by scholars such as Edward Said, Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak, Homi K. Bhabha, and Frantz Fanon (Said, 1978; Spivak, 1993; Bhabha, 2008; Fanon, 2008). These theories serve as a theoretical framework, guiding the textual analysis to uncover and interpret post-colonial structures and themes present in the novel. By employing these perspectives, the study seeks to understand the complexities of colonial relationships, encompassing traditions, norms, identity, culture, and experiences depicted in the portrayal of both colonizers and the colonized. The main analytical tool used in this research is Edward Said's theory of Orientalism, supplemented by insights from other post-colonial theorists (Edward, 1978). The data collection process involves a comprehensive study of the novel and the selected theories, and relevant text materials from the novel are carefully chosen based on the elements of the adopted theories. The primary sources of data include Joseph Conrad's "The Heart of Darkness," as well as the works of Spivak, Said, Bhabha, and Fanon (Conrad, 1902; Said, 1978; Spivak, 1993; Bhabha, 2008; Fanon, 2008). The research paper presents a qualitative data analysis technique, focusing on themes such as orientalism, racism, identity, subalternity, and hybridity. After thorough examination and interpretation of the novel's text in light of the selected theories, the paper offers critical insights into the post-colonial elements present in "The Heart of Darkness." This study contributes to the broader understanding of post-colonial literature and highlights the lasting impacts of colonialism on both the colonized and the colonizers.