The transition to the age of imperialism was a difficult time for everyone involved. It was considered a time when expansion took place. Empires focused their attention on conquest and acquiring resources. It was believed that a profitable balance of trade would provide the wealth needed to maintain and expand the empire. (Cody). Novelists wrote about the experiences people had during the era of imperialism. One novelist in particular, Joseph Conrad, was declared negative and racist. Others considered Conrad daring for his portrayal of realism. How was Conrad viewed in the age of imperialism? Heart of Darkness is set in the Congo during the era of imperialism. This era led to the rise of the Victorian era. Both eras were ideal for expansion and growth. Through Conrad's travel experience in this era he wanted to share with the reader. This motivated the writing of his story, but it was witnessing the cruel treatment of the natives during his journey. Imperialism, from the perspective of modern progressivism, has been vilified as inhumane, cruel, and self-aggrandizing. (Rayment). Conrad had an adventure and described what he went through. Those who read the story will think that Conrad spoke that way as the person he was. While reading the story, Conrad explained his travels in detail. He lived through a hell that most people don't have the misfortune of experiencing. Just because a novelist details the horrors of an adventure doesn't necessarily mean they are themselves inhuman. This type of treatment has been carried out in many parts of the world. The adventure through the Congo left its mark on Conrad. The way Africans were treated was beyond human. That didn't make him a bad p... middle of paper... women as a housewife. Conrad adapted when he showed his view of women in that era. In modern society, women are more opinionated, hold down jobs, and have power in many different areas of their lives. Today's readers might see Conrad as a tough person in this respect, but he was considered normal in the imperialist era. Conrad's criticism of people in the age of imperialism during his trip to the Congo was simply the personality of his characters. Conrad may have used Marlow to represent his real feelings in the adventure. His criticisms showed readers what kind of life he lived during the trip. Does this actually prove that Conrad was a bad or terrible person? He doesn't come across as a terrible person but expresses his opinions openly. In his book he noted numerous relationships, but does not necessarily point out that Conrad is a brutal person.