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Essay / The Poisonwood Bible: Marxism and American Arrogance toward the Congo
Table of ContentsIntroductionNathan PriceRachel PriceRuth May PriceConclusionIntroductionArrogance has long been recognized as a harmful force in history, often causing more harm than good , particularly evident in the tumultuous relations between the United States. and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Through Barbara Kingsolver's novel "The Poisonwood Bible," the complex dynamics of interventionism, cultural interference, and racism are vividly described, offering a poignant reflection on the consequences of Western hubris. This essay delves into the characters of Nathan, Rachel, and Ruth May Price, examining their roles as representations of American arrogance and Marxist thought, and how these themes contribute to the downfall of a fictional family and a nation rich in culture.Say no. to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayThesis Statement: Through an exploration of the characters and themes of “The Poisonwood Bible,” it becomes clear that the American arrogance, interventionism, and racism lead to the loss of the Price family and the Congo, serving as a poignant critique of Western attitudes toward other cultures. Nathan PriceNathan Price embodies American arrogance and lack of respect for the Congolese people. Its failure to recognize its flaws reflects the United States' refusal to recognize its own shortcomings in its interactions with foreign nations. Nathan's dismissive attitude toward the Underdowns, who warn him against the Congolese independence movement, reflects the belief in American superiority and the idea that the Congolese are incapable of governing themselves. This feeling is summed up in his statement: “They have neither the temperament nor the intellect for such things” (Kingsolver 156). Nathan's actions reflect the historic arrogance of the United States in its attempt to impose its beliefs and values on other nations without regard for their autonomy or well-being. Furthermore, Nathan's religious and cultural interference in the Congo constitutes a microcosm of American interventionism. He imposes his Christian beliefs on the Congolese people without regard to their own spiritual traditions, reflecting the paternalistic attitudes of Western powers towards colonized nations. This resembles the historical reality of Western missionaries seeking to convert indigenous populations to Christianity, often at the expense of their original cultures. Rachel PriceRachel Price, a product of white American privilege, embodies the materialism and racism rooted in Western society. His obsession with material possessions and his contempt for the Congolese people reveal the superficial values perpetuated by American consumerism. Rachel's remark about children begging for food and gifts highlights her ignorance and entitlement, reflecting Western countries' paternalistic attitudes toward the Global South. Additionally, Rachel's racial prejudices reflect the systemic racism that was prevalent in 1950s America. Her segregationist views and casual dismissal of African Americans as "staying in their own parts of town" highlight the deeply rooted prejudices rooted white Americans during this period. By juxtaposing Rachel's attitudes to the broader historical context of racial segregation in the United States, Kingsolver critiques the hypocrisy of American claims to moral superiority. Ruth May PriceRuth May Price is a tragic symbol of innocence corrupted by racism and imperialism. Its., 68(2), 67-86.