The title is called “An Image of Africa” because Heart of Darkness has a small description of the country. Conrad was illustrating the story of Mr. Kurtz’ journey through Africa, but as Achebe points out, the author is also describing the “uncivilized” behavior and looks of the African people. Heart of Darkness delivers a tale of a man, as well as a somewhat one-sided view of Africa.
In the critique, Achebe describes the racism evident throughout the novel. He believes the book is displaying a narrow-minded view of Africa:
Heart of Darkness projects the image of Africa as "the other world," the antithesis of Europe and therefore of civilization, a place where man's vaunted intelligence and refinement are finally mocked by triumphant bestiality.
Achebe is appalled by the racist image of Africa Conrad presents to his audience. He could easily have fixated an angry modifier to the title, but he let the simplicity show his disgust. “An Image of Africa” informs readers that Heart of Darkness is but one side of the tale of Africa. Achebe’s critique confirms that Heart of Darkness is only one, racist outlook of Africa.
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