Post-ColonialCriticism, from my understanding, analyzes how natives are affect
by colonization. It also analyses power and hegemony (dominance),
which are often the reasons between differences in culture.
Although the Poisonwood Bible is not written from a Native’s
perspective, the effects of colonialism are still extremely evident. Throughout
the text (or what we have read so far), Kingsolver makes references of the
conditions and culture of the Congolese people. Nathan Price clearly
demonstrates the effects of post-colonialism, even though he is not a narrator
himself. For example, when planting the demonstration garden, Nathan disregards
the advice of the natives completely. He often assumes power and knowledge over
the natives and their differing culture. Nathan tries to teach the natives the “right
way”, or what he considers to be correct. Each of Nathan’s daughters also
portray these effects on the natives to some extent. Yet, one can argue that it
seen more through the eyes of Ruth May. For example, while Rachel is concerned about
her looks, Ruth May narrates everything she sees. The girls, Leah, Adah, Ruth
May, and Rachel also demonstrate the effects of whites in Africa, but it is
most clearly seen through Nathan Price.
Indeed, Nathan is the most obvious example of Post-colonialist commentary. He looks down upon the natives and attempts to change them, despite the fact that they do not need changing, at least culturally.
ReplyDeleteSomething that I noticed that I did not mention in my blog post was the fact that the Europeans such as Nathan, who do not want to exploit the natives for profit claim to want to help the Africans. The thing is, the Africans do need help. The children are starving, the villagers do not have good clothing. However, many colonists try to help the Africans is all the wrong ways. Instead of bringing food, technology or knowledge, Nathan Price brings spirituality, which is one of the few things that the natives already possess, and thus do not need.