"The Nigger of the Narcissus": Conrad's Examination of a Race

Paper Summary:

A paper which examines Joseph Conrad's stylistic techniques which he uses to convey the general attitude toward African-Americans of his time, yet he himself is not acting as racist. This paper gives an explanation for Conrad's seemingly racist title and text, "The Nigger of the Narcissus".

From the Paper:

"Conrad's reversal shows that none of the white shipmates are racist towards James Wait. Although Conrad's white seamen present racist language towards Wait, there is no indication that they feel themselves superior to him. In fact, with Conrad's reversal of roles in slavery, constant allusions to slavery reveal that the white shipmates are inferior to Wait. "We served him in his bed with rage and humility; and he rewarded us by unconciliating criticism...he made himself master of every moment of our existence" (31). By giving such power to a black character, Conrad compares the black James Wait to a white slave holder."

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