Topic > The Poisonwood Bible: Marxism and American Arrogance towards the Congo

IndexIntroductionNathan PriceRachel PriceRuth May PriceConclusionIntroductionArrogance has long been recognized as a harmful force in history, often causing more harm than good, particularly evident in the tumultuous relationship between the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Through Barbara Kingsolver's novel "The Poisonwood Bible," the complex dynamics of interventionism, cultural interference, and racism are vividly depicted, offering a poignant reflection on the consequences of Western arrogance. This essay delves into the characters of Nathan, Rachel, and Ruth May Price, examining their role as representations of American arrogance and Marxist thought, and how these themes contribute to the downfall of both a fictional family and a culturally rich nation. to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Thesis Statement: Through an exploration of the characters and themes of "The Poisonwood Bible," it becomes apparent that American arrogance, interventionism, and racism lead to the downfall of both the Price family and the Congo, serving as touching critique of Western attitudes towards other cultures. Nathan Price Nathan Price embodies American arrogance and disrespect towards the Congolese people. Its failure to recognize its own shortcomings reflects the United States' refusal to recognize its own limitations in interactions with foreign nations. Nathan's dismissive attitude toward the Underdowns, who warn him about the Congolese independence movement, reflects a belief in American superiority and the idea that the Congolese are incapable of self-government. This sentiment is encapsulated in his statement, “They have not the temperament or intellect for such things” (Kingsolver 156). Nathan's actions reflect the historical arrogance of the United States in attempting to impose its beliefs and values ​​on other nations without regard for their autonomy or well-being. Furthermore, Nathan's religious and cultural interference in the Congo serves as a microcosm of American interventionism. It imposes its Christian beliefs on the Congolese people without regard for their own spiritual traditions, reflecting the paternalistic attitude of Western powers towards colonized nations. This parallels the historical reality of Western missionaries seeking to convert indigenous populations to Christianity, often to the detriment of their native cultures. Rachel Price Rachel Price, a product of white American privilege, embodies the materialism and racism ingrained in Western society. His obsession with material possessions and contempt for the Congolese people reveal the superficial values ​​perpetuated by American consumerism. Rachel's observation about children asking for food and gifts highlights her ignorance and entitlement, reflecting the paternalistic attitude of Western nations towards the Global South. Furthermore, Rachel's racial prejudices reflect the systemic racism prevalent in 1950s America. His segregationist views and casual dismissal of African Americans for "staying in their own parts of town" highlight the deeply ingrained prejudices of white Americans during this period. By juxtaposing Rachel's attitudes with the broader historical context of racial segregation in the United States, Kingsolver criticizes the hypocrisy of American claims to moral superiority. Ruth May Price Ruth May Price serves as a tragic symbol of innocence corrupted by racism and imperialism. Its rapid deterioration in Congo parallels the rapid, 68(2), 67-86.