Nostromo · Question
How does Nostromo develop the theme of Politics and Revolution?
Answer
Nostromo by Joseph Conrad develops Politics and Revolution across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The novel explores the chaos of political upheaval in Costaguana, where revolutions are driven by greed, power struggles, and ideological hypocrisy, affecting both the elite and the common people.
The chapter centers on the violent overthrow of President Ribiera and the chaos of revolutionary mobs in Sulaco.
Giorgio's Garibaldino past and his lament for the lost cause of liberty underscore the theme of revolutionary idealism and its failure.
Stories of political outrage, civil wars, and proscriptions permeate households; the corrupt local government is contrasted with the people's desire for peace.
Evidence in the book
- II
The chapter centers on the violent overthrow of President Ribiera and the chaos of revolutionary mobs in Sulaco.
- Chapter IV
Giorgio's Garibaldino past and his lament for the lost cause of liberty underscore the theme of revolutionary idealism and its failure.
- Chapter VII
Stories of political outrage, civil wars, and proscriptions permeate households; the corrupt local government is contrasted with the people's desire for peace.
- I
The chapter details the political maneuvering behind the Ribierist movement, the legacy of Guzman Bento's tyranny, and the use of the San Tome mine's wealth to support a new regime.
- II
The chapter is steeped in political maneuvering, the Montero revolt, and the struggle between the 'regeneration' party and the insurgents, showing the fragility of the state and the role of caudillos.
- III
Decoud's involvement in the patriotic small-arms committee and the founding of 'Porvenir' illustrate the political machinations and revolutionary fervor surrounding the Ribiera government's struggle against the Monterists.
- Chapter IV
The chapter depicts the departure of General Barrios to confront Montero, highlighting the precarious political situation and the reliance on military force to maintain order.
- V
Decoud's advocacy for Occidental secession and criticism of political purity highlight the revolutionary and pragmatic tensions in Costaguana's politics.
