What does Achebe say about Conrad's portrayal of good and evil? (:

The critique “Image of Africa,” the author Achebe describes Conrad’s portrayal of good and evil as racist, and one-sided.  He feels the story of Mr. Kurtz’ journey through Africa presents a dishonest view of the Africans as evil.  Heart of Darkness seems to portray the difference between good and evil as the veil that separates the cultures of Europe and Africa.

            In the critique, Achebe describes how Conrad seemed obsessed with the Africans’ behavior, customs, and appearances.  Achebe depicts, “‘A black figure stood up, strode on long black legs, waving long black arms . . ..’ as though we might expect a black figure striding along on black legs to wave white arms!”  Conrad is portraying African’s as evil simply because their culture clashes with that of others.  Achebe believes Conrad’s view is racist, and wrong.  Good and evil cannot be defined as the difference between cultural practices.