Kincaid vs. Orwell

“On Seeing England for the First Time” and “Shooting an Elephant” have two things in common; their point of view and supporting details for their thesis. They also differ slightly on their point of view, way they use the supporting details, and when the essays were written.

            Both essays are a primary source. Kincaid and Orwell were both at the scene of what they were writing about. This affects how emotionally invested they are in their pieces. The point of view differs slightly, though, Kincaid was one of the oppressed whereas Orwell was a part of the oppressors. Both authors look unfavorably upon Imperialism.

            Both Essays employ anecdotes to support their thesis. Kincaid’s story is more direct and denotative, outright condemning the British empire for overbearing the Antiguan culture. The shooting of the elephant, however, is more subtle, and connotative.

            The timing on these essays are different. Most of the Caribbean was conquered by the English in the 1600s. By the time that Kincaid comes around (1950’s) Antigua has already been under British rule for centuries. “On Seeing England for the First Time” is written after the people of Antigua have already assimilated into the English culture. “Shooting an Elephant”, however, was written during the first years of British presence. The Burmese people were still rebelling and giving the British a harsh time.