Prompt #9

     Whether or not Heart of Darkness is a racist novel is a more difficult question to answer than it may seem.  There is the use of harsh and crude language such as "nigger", "savages", and even going as far as comparing them to dogs.  On the surface this comes across as a very racist, very gross book which has no place on public library shelves, much less on the a student's desk.  However, several characteristics must be taken into consideration before quickly judging Conrad's work.
     A large thing to be taken in to consideration is the time period which this was set in.  The novella was published in 1899.  Although slavery was now frowned upon, the attitudes towards black people did not really change throughout America or England.  This was before the cultural normalities of working to not offend people and working to make everyone equal.  These earlier words are examples of words accepted by white men at this time.  Another possible explanation has to do with the phrase "talking like a sailor". This can be shown here as an example of sailors who just use crude language because it is their way of life.
     I believe it is important for this novel to stay and be taught in schools because it also teaches the wickedness of imperialism and the Englishmen and the history of the time.  A people cannot grow together unless they face their past and move forward.  Painting over the mistakes and injustices will not cause change.  Conrad's work deserves to be read, taught, and be called a classic novella because it does what all novels are supposed to do - tell a story.