Question

How important is the idea of fear in Colonial writing?

Answer 1

Fear in Colonial writing is essential as it expresses the anxieties of colonial life and is used by authors to convey the dangers, control, and societal upheaval during colonial times. It manifests in various forms, from literal dangers to metaphorical representations of oppression and resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

The idea of fear is a prevalent theme in Colonial writing and works to establish the tensions and uncertainties inherent in colonial life. Authors often used fear to communicate the challenges and dangers of the colonial experience, which included the fear of the unknown, the fear of the other, and the fear of losing one's identity or being subjugated. In the context of colonialism, fear could also be a tool or method employed by colonizers to control and intimidate, as well as a feeling experienced by colonized peoples in response to the threats posed by the colonial regime.

Fear in Colonial writing is not just literal, but also metaphorical, symbolizing the broader anxieties related to the cultural, political, and social impacts of colonization. Writings from this period might explore how fear operates as a means of control or oppression, or how it can galvanize individuals into action or resistance against colonial rule. This could take the form of gothic literature like that by Edgar Allan Poe, who expertly evoked fear through tales of personal madness and phantasms, or could be seen in political writings where the fear of subversion or moral decay is used to advocate for a particular course of action.

Answer 2

The entire history of colonialism is dominated by fear, anxiety, and oppression. The imperialistic writings portray the east or the colonized as dark, savage, and fearful while laying emphasis on glorifying colonial achievements. In Conrad's popular work 'Heart of Darkness', the Africans are portrayed as the savage, beast, shadowy, and wild who possessed a constant fear for the white men. However, the truth that it was the inner darkness and void of colonizers which they were unleashing on the poor natives in the name of civilizing them. The imperial writings highlight the darkness and barbarity to overshadow their own evil and inner void which haunts them. Achebe beautifully critiques this in response to Conrad's racist portrayal.