Lecture Notes on Rudyard Kipling's "The White Man's Burden" and H.T. Johnson's "The Black Man's Burden"

Overview

• Rudyard Kipling's "The White Man's Burden" (1899):

  • Written in response to America's takeover of the Philippines post-Spanish-American War.
  • Encourages imperial powers to take up the "burden" of governing non-European countries.
  • Reflects themes of imperialism and racial superiority.

• H.T. Johnson's "The Black Man's Burden" (1899):

  • A critical response to Kipling's poem.
  • Highlights the oppression faced by Black people in the U.S. and colonized regions.
  • Critiques American imperialism and calls for domestic justice.

Themes in "The White Man's Burden"

Europeans vs. Non-Europeans

• Europeans:

  • Portrayed as having a moral obligation to civilize non-Europeans.
  • Described as sacrificing comfort and sending the best to aid others.
  • Seemingly depicted as superior and responsible for governing less developed nations.

• Non-Europeans:

  • Described in demeaning terms such as "half-devil and half-child."
  • Language reflects racial superiority and justifies European intervention.

Motives for Imperialism

• Missionary/Civilizing Motive:

  • The urge to "civilize" seen as a primary motive.
  • Reflects the belief in the superiority of Western civilization.

• Racial Superiority/White Supremacy:

  • Emphasized through demeaning language and justification of imperialism.

Kipling's View on Imperialism

• Advocates for imperialism based on the belief in Western superiority.
• Suggests violent measures as justified for "civilizing" other nations.
• Indicates a misguided but sincere belief in the benefits of colonialism.

Themes in "The Black Man's Burden"

Perspective on Racism and Imperialism

• Black Men:

  • Refers to oppressed Black individuals in the U.S. and colonized areas.

• Critique of Imperialism:

  • Johnson opposes American imperialism.
  • Uses the poem to question and challenge imperialist tactics.

Call for Justice

• Advocates for justice within the U.S.
• Suggests a focus on improving conditions for those already under American control.

Modern Perspective

• Johnson's View:
  • Considered more modern and akin to 21st-century perspectives.
  • Addresses ongoing issues of racial injustice and inequality.

References

• Kipling's Poem: Encourages U.S. imperialism akin to European colonial practices.
• Johnson's Poem: Calls out the hypocrisy and moral failure of imperialist actions.

Additional Resources

• Recommended readings from Litcharts and Litcharts for themes on imperialism and racism.