Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness has had major changes in the worlds view of it. It has gone from a classic way before its time to a racist & sexist novel. It is a controversial novel because of these majorly contradicting views that have changed over time. For instant Watts is in favor of the teaching of this novels in schools because of it’s ability to point harsh realities. At the same time Achebe believes that the book has more bad than good and should not be read.
When Conrad first published Heart of Darkness he was complimented for being an author way before his time because of his ability to acknowledge and understand the faults of imperialism. He was commended for his ability to use satire to show this. Yet years later when this novel was reviewed again it was suddenly brought to the public attention for what was considered a much need review on its stature. New critics raged that the book was sexist for its backdrop female characters denied even a name. They also argued that the novel didn't just acknowledge racism but participate with the inhuman representation of the Africans.
However Conrad’s novel in my opinion does have more positive aspects than negative ones. With consideration to his time Conrad was rightfully ahead of the general public yet with consideration to modern times he is of course behind. Yet as Mrs.G once said, “We can not judge past peoples as if they shared the same desires we do now” . Conrad’s novel also approaches majorly important motifs that make it worth teaching. Its pages are filled paradoxical and other complex literary devices making it academically worthy.
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