A Distaste for European Culture

For much of Marlow’s endeavor in the disintegrating state of Congo, he observed the hypocrisy of imperialism and became aware of the seemingly ignorant nature of the cultured Europeans. When Marlow becomes reacquainted with the “sepulchral structures” of European cities, he notices more than before the benightedness of his peers as the ideals of imperialism continuously linger in the African nations. In his vain attempt to re-assimilate himself into a modernized culture, Marlow is astounded by the uncaring and unknowing citizens he was away from for so long: “I found myself…resenting the sight of people hurrying through the streets, [devouring] their infamous cookery…[and dreaming] their insignificant and silly dreams. They were intruders whose knowledge of life was to me an irritating presence” (155-156). Knowing full well the effects of imperialism on resourceful nations first hand, Marlow cannot believe the sense of relaxation and easiness of the society he left behind. It appears that the citizens of Europe either do not care how their government conducts foreign economic affairs, or they are completely oblivious of the inhumane methods their government is willing to enforce. This exact feeling is what defeats Marlow as a human being. Witnessing these methods, Marlow is given the impression that imperialism is simply a euphemism for controlling the resources of other nations in benefit of their own interest. The lack of understanding forces Marlow to change is perspective of the oblivious, retreating what he originally believed to be the fault of the government to also include that of its citizens. The obstacles Marlow overcomes when returning to Europe are merely symbolic of this struggle.