Overview
The essay recounts George Orwell's inner conflict as a British police officer in colonial Burma, focusing on the pressures of imperialism and conformity during the incident of shooting a rampaging elephant.
Colonial Tensions in Burma
- Orwell, a sub-divisional police officer in Moulmein, faces hostility from the local Burmese due to anti-European sentiment.
- Young Buddhist priests are identified as the most openly antagonistic group.
- Orwell secretly opposes British imperialism, feeling guilt and inner conflict about his role.
The Elephant Incident
- Orwell is called to handle a tame elephant that has gone must and is rampaging in the town.
- The elephant has caused property damage, killed a cow, and trampled a man to death.
- The crowd is eager for the elephant to be shot, mainly for entertainment and the prospect of meat.
Moral and Social Dilemmas
- Orwell realizes he does not want to shoot the elephant, as it is valuable and no longer dangerous.
- The immense crowd expects him to act decisively, making him feel like a puppet to their will.
- He understands that imperialists must constantly appear powerful, often against their own judgment.
The Shooting and Aftermath
- Orwell shoots the elephant multiple times; it dies slowly and painfully.
- The local people quickly begin stripping the elephant's body for meat.
- European opinions differ: older men support his action; younger men value the elephant more than the local victim.
- Legally, Orwell's actions are justified, but he admits he acted mainly to avoid humiliation.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Imperialism — A policy of extending a country’s power and influence through colonization, use of military force, or other means.
- Must — A periodic condition in male elephants, marked by aggressive behavior and increased hormone levels.
- Mahout — The keeper and driver of an elephant.
- Sahib — A term used in colonial India for a European male authority.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the main themes of imperialism and conformity for discussion.
- Reflect on Orwell’s internal conflict and its implications for authority and power.