Respond in at least 5 sentences. The answer needs to be written in complete sentences. Include at least 1 quote from “Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell to earn full credit and support your response.
In a paragraph, evaluate the influence of historical context on the form, style, and point of view of “Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell.
The historical context of British imperialism in Burma greatly influenced the form, style, and point of view of “Shooting an Elephant” by George Orwell. This is evident in Orwell’s use of first-person narration, which allows the reader to see the conflicting emotions and moral dilemmas faced by the narrator, who represents the oppressive colonizer. Orwell writes, “I had got to shoot the elephant … It seemed to me that it would be murder to shoot him.” This internal struggle reflects the larger conflict between the imperialists and the colonized people, highlighting the dehumanizing effects of imperialism on both parties. The form and style of the essay, with its concise and matter-of-fact language, underscore the brutal and callous nature of imperialism.
Overall, the historical context of British imperialism in Burma shapes Orwell’s narrative in “Shooting an Elephant,” as it provides a backdrop for exploring the themes of power, oppression, and morality. Orwell’s first-person point of view allows readers to empathize with the conflicted narrator and understand the psychological impact of imperialism on both the oppressor and the oppressed. Through his vivid descriptions and introspective reflections, Orwell reveals the complexities and moral ambiguities inherent in colonial rule. Thus, the historical context of British imperialism influences not only the content of the essay but also its form, style, and point of view, making “Shooting an Elephant” a powerful critique of the colonial enterprise.