Colonies were mostly run for the benefit of mother countries, but some people believed the colonial system helped everyone becau
se it spread European civilization. How does Kipling feel about colonialism? Write three to four sentences, using the poem to support your answer.
ANSWER:
Sample Response: The poem seems to imply that Western powers had an obligation to bring technology and Western civilization to other parts of the world. This idea is stated in the phrase "to serve your captives’ need." Kipling believes this work is thankless and that the subjects may even hate or place blame on the colonial power.
He was an advocate of colonialism, and George Orwell called him a prophet of British imperialism, while still defending him from the attacks of those who declared him a fascist. Kipling is still viewed by many as imperialist and racist. His "Jungle Book", which is part of a compulsory editorial, is considered by many critics to be racist.
Explanation:
In line with the general beliefs of the time, Kipling believed that people of European heritage had better educational conditions, generally better living conditions, and that since they already knew Christianity, they should spread his message.
At first glance, it was clear to him that the <em>"tawdry rule of kings", </em>a system in which the natives obey and enslave, does not work. The natives were constantly rebelling and a picture of them as <em>"half devil and half child" </em>was created.
Yet the fact remains that Europeans thought their value system and way of life were better and should be imposed on unenlightened nations.
