The Distinction among Colonialism, Imperialism and Racism: Conrad’s Subversion and Rewriting of Traditional British National Identity

Abstract

Traditional British adventure fiction often portrays British citizens as noble, civilized, upright and brave colonial gentlemen. Having known the nature of colonization and colonizers, Conrad subverts such discourse and tries to rewrite traditional British national identity. However, because he is a man who opposes colonialism, but supports imperialism and racism, the British national identity that Conrad portrays remains the elements related to imperialism and racism and reflects his own understanding to the implication of gentleman. The ideal British national identity in his mind is the imperial gentleman with pure British descent and humanitarian spirit and brave enough to take the responsibility.