British Imperialism

Definition

British imperialism refers to the policy and practice of extending British dominance over other countries and territories through colonization, economic control, and political influence, primarily during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This era was marked by the establishment of a vast empire that impacted global trade, culture, and geopolitics. The consequences of British imperialism are reflected in various literary works that critique or portray the complexities of colonial relationships and human experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the height of British imperialism, Britain controlled nearly a quarter of the world's land and population, leading to its description as 'the empire on which the sun never sets.'
2. British imperialism led to significant social changes both in Britain and in colonized nations, often resulting in the introduction of new governance systems, education, and economic structures.
3. Literature from this period often reflects themes of imperialism, including the moral dilemmas faced by colonizers, the impact on indigenous cultures, and critiques of colonial attitudes.
4. E.M. Forster's works frequently highlight the tensions and conflicts arising from British imperialism, emphasizing personal relationships affected by broader political realities.
5. The legacy of British imperialism is still visible today in many former colonies, influencing their political structures, economies, and cultural identities.

Review Questions

• How does British imperialism manifest in E.M. Forster's novels, particularly in terms of character relationships and societal critique?
  • In E.M. Forster's novels, British imperialism often appears through character interactions that reveal the complexities of colonial relationships. For example, his portrayal of British characters interacting with Indian characters highlights the power dynamics and cultural misunderstandings inherent in imperialism. These interactions serve as a critique of colonial attitudes and reveal how personal relationships are influenced by larger socio-political issues.
• Discuss how Edwardian fiction reflects social critiques related to British imperialism and its impact on liberal humanist ideals.
  • Edwardian fiction often critiques the social implications of British imperialism by questioning the moral justifications for colonial rule. This literature reflects a tension between liberal humanist ideals—such as individual rights and ethical governance—and the realities of exploitation and oppression found in colonial contexts. Writers used their narratives to challenge readers to consider the human cost of imperial policies while advocating for more humane approaches to governance.
• Evaluate the relationship between British imperialism and cultural identity in literature during the Edwardian period, especially in light of evolving perceptions about colonial rule.
  • The relationship between British imperialism and cultural identity in Edwardian literature reveals a dynamic interplay between dominance and resistance. Authors began to question traditional narratives that glorified empire-building while simultaneously exploring themes of identity shaped by colonial experiences. This shift reflects evolving perceptions about colonial rule; as writers highlighted both the perceived benefits and harsh realities of imperialism, they contributed to a more nuanced understanding of cultural identity that included voices from colonized populations, ultimately enriching literary discourse.

Related terms

Colonialism:

The practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Cultural Hegemony: The dominance of one cultural group over others, often leading to the imposition of its values and practices on subordinate cultures.

Postcolonialism: An academic field that examines the cultural, political, and economic impacts of colonialism and seeks to understand the ongoing effects of colonial rule in formerly colonized nations.