Conrad, efficiency, and the varieties of imperialism

Abstract

The article examines 18th century Polish novelist Joseph Conrad's fiction in relation to different conceptions of imperialism and capitalism. Topics covered include his attitude towards "Englishness," the value of efficiency and on the British "work ethic." Also analyzed are his representation of Russian and German imperialism in the political essays and the suggestion that his fiction undermines the opposition in his nonfiction writings between different types of imperialism.