The question was "What lesson or meaning do you think this story held for the British audience of the Victorian Era?" This is for the story The Mark of the Beast by Rudyard Kipling. I was thinking that the answer was that the lesson was that just because someone believes in something different from what you believe it doesnt mean you should disrespect their things. The struggle between the Christian God and the gods of India resulted in a terrifying experience. I don't know if this is the right answer or not and if its not could i get some help on it? This is 40 points on this paper and i can't afford to get it wrong
To determine the lesson or meaning that this story held for the British audience of the Victorian Era, it is necessary to analyze the themes and context of Rudyard Kipling's "The Mark of the Beast."
"The Mark of the Beast" explores the clash between British colonialism and Indian culture, particularly in the religious realm. The story follows the experiences of a British colonialist named Fleete, who disregards and desecrates a local temple and statue of the Hindu god Hanuman. As a result, he incurs the wrath of the "Silver Man," a shape-shifting deity who marks him with a curse.
In examining this story, some potential lessons or meanings for the Victorian British audience can be derived:
1. Cultural tolerance and respect: One possible lesson is that the British Empire should have shown greater respect towards the religious beliefs and cultural practices of the Indian people. The disregard and disrespect shown by Fleete towards the Indian temple and deity led to severe consequences, suggesting that colonial ignorance and arrogance can have negative repercussions.
2. Supernatural retribution: The story could also convey a cautionary message about the dangers of interfering with or disrespecting foreign cultures, especially their religious beliefs. The horrifying experiences that Fleete undergoes upon being cursed highlight the potential consequences of disregarding local customs and spiritual beliefs.
3. Loss of British exceptionalism: It is essential to consider the historical context of the Victorian Era. At this time, Britain saw itself as a superior and dominant civilization, often imposing its values and beliefs on the colonies it ruled. "The Mark of the Beast" challenges this notion by demonstrating that the British protagonist is ultimately powerless against the forces of a foreign religion and culture.
To determine the specific lesson or meaning that resonated with the Victorian British audience, it is necessary to consider additional factors such as the dominant ideologies, societal norms, and cultural climate of that era. It may be helpful to consult academic sources or literary critics who have studied Kipling's work in the context of Victorian literature and colonialism.