example of demonic other in the secret river by kate grevile
In "The Secret River" by Kate Grenville, one example of a demonic "other" can be seen in the character Smasher Sullivan. Smasher is presented as an antagonist throughout the novel, a relentless figure who revels in violence and seeks to control and dominate the Indigenous people of Australia. His actions are driven by a deep sense of racial superiority and a belief in the inherent savagery of the Aboriginal people.
Smasher's character embodies the demonization and dehumanization of the Indigenous population by the colonial settlers. He represents the dark, destructive forces that clash with the protagonist, William Thornhill, as he attempts to claim land and establish a new life on the Hawkesbury River. Smasher consistently carries out cruel acts against the Aboriginal people, including acts of physical violence, theft, and murder.
Through the character Smasher Sullivan, Grenville highlights the dangerous consequences of viewing the Indigenous population as an "other" - a demonic force that needs to be subdued or eradicated. The novel showcases the destructive impact of such thinking on the individuals involved, as well as the wider implications for colonisation and the ethical questions it raises.
In Kate Grenville's novel "The Secret River," there are no characters explicitly described as demonic or supernatural. However, there are several antagonistic characters who pose a threat to the protagonist and contribute to the story's sense of conflict. One such character is Smasher Sullivan, who represents the violent and oppressive nature of colonial society.
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the significance of Smasher Sullivan in "The Secret River":
1. Smasher Sullivan is introduced as a fellow convict alongside the main character, William Thornhill, when they are transported to Australia. Despite their shared circumstances, Sullivan quickly establishes himself as a menacing figure.
2. Sullivan is a brutal and sadistic man who takes pleasure in abusing and intimidating others, particularly the Aboriginal people who inhabit the land. His actions reflect the colonial mindset that seeks to dominate and exterminate indigenous populations.
3. As the story progresses, Sullivan becomes a recurring antagonist, constantly clashing with Thornhill and his attempts to settle and make a home on the Hawkesbury River. He represents the constant threat of violence and conflict faced by the settlers in their interactions with both indigenous people and their fellow convicts.
4. The tension between Thornhill and Sullivan culminates in a dramatic confrontation where Thornhill must confront the darkness within himself and make a difficult choice about his future. This clash serves as a turning point in the novel, highlighting the struggle between the forces of cruelty and compassion.
While not explicitly demonic, Smasher Sullivan represents the negative aspects of human nature and the destructive forces at work during the colonization of Australia. His presence serves to illustrate the harsh realities faced by settlers and the ongoing conflict between different groups of people in this historical context.