The passage presents a critical view of Charles Dickens, highlighting his controversial views on race, colonialism, and his reaction to the Indian Rebellion of 1857. While Dickens is celebrated as one of the greatest English novelists for his contributions to literature, the excerpt delves into his less flattering traits, particularly his racial biases and his stance on colonialism.
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| English Novelist Charles Dickens88guru.com |
Context Behind Dickens's Remarks:
Indian Rebellion of 1857:
- Triggered by various grievances, including the use of greased cartridges offensive to Hindu and Muslim soldiers, this rebellion was a significant anti-colonial uprising against the British East India Company.
- British media at the time sensationalized and often exaggerated reports of atrocities committed by Indian rebels. This fueled racial animosity and led to widespread calls for vengeance in Britain.
Dickens's Letter:
- In his letter to Emile de la Rue, Dickens expressed a genocidal wish to "exterminate" the Indian population in response to the rebellion. This statement reflects the extreme racial prejudice and anger prevalent among many British individuals during that period .British writers in a process of continuing, holocaust denial put the number of Indians killed at about 100,000. Randeep Ramesh (''India 's secret history'': ... a holocaust, one where millions disappeared..), author says ''British reprisals involved the killing of 10 million Indians spread over 10 years,'' Guardian, 24 August 2007.
Broader Racism:
- Dickens's attitudes were not isolated to Indians. His writings and remarks demonstrate prejudice against multiple racial and ethnic groups, including Africans, Native Americans, Italians, Jews, and the Irish.
Critical Perspectives:
Colonial Mindset:
- Dickens’s views were not unique but representative of many Victorian-era Britons who believed in the superiority of the British Empire and its civilizing mission.
- The dehumanization of colonized populations was a common justification for British imperialism.
Selective Humanitarianism:
- While Dickens championed social reforms in England and criticized industrial exploitation, his empathy often did not extend to non-European populations. This duality in his worldview is seen as a significant contradiction.
Reevaluating Historical Figures:
- In modern times, figures like Dickens are reexamined not only for their literary contributions but also for their social and political ideologies. This allows for a more nuanced understanding of their legacies.
Ethical Reflections:
Dickens’s literary genius remains undisputed, but his racial views reveal the darker side of Victorian imperial ideology. It is essential to acknowledge both his achievements and his failings to understand how even the most celebrated individuals can reflect the prejudices of their time. Such discussions also serve as a reminder to challenge and move beyond similar biases in contemporary society.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2019/02/charles-dickens-racist-who-never.html
www.estherlederberg.com/E Images/Extracurricular/Dickens.html Victorian Studies 48.2 (2005) 331-333
Dickens and Empire: Discourses of Class, Race and Colonialism in the Works of Charles Dickens, by Grace Moore; pp. xii + 210. Aldershot and Burlington: Ash gate, 2004, www.guardian.co.uk/world/2007/aug/24/india.randeepramesh
