Question

What is Achebe’s purpose in this passage?

to explain that Conrad’s inclusion of multiple narrators confuses readers and leads them to misinterpret the text
to explain that Conrad provides an alternative frame of reference of the narrator’s perception, actions and beliefs
to explain that, even though Conrad is trying to separate himself from his characters’ morals, he most likely approves of them
to explain that Conrad disapproves of Marlow’s actions and beliefs, and hopes to show the dangers of Marlow’s way of thinking

Answer 1

Choice 3.

Achebe’s point is that Conrad’s narrative distancing (multiple narrators) does not absolve him of responsibility; rather, Conrad most likely endorses the prejudiced attitudes expressed by his characters. He argues Conrad’s “separation” is ineffective and that the text reflects Conrad’s own racist approval, not a clear condemnation.