Orwell

Michael pool

Orwell

Why did the Elephant have to die? Killing is terrible in general. There are occasional references to imperialism throughout Shooting an Elephant, which may pass by the reader’s awareness without notice. While these references are by no means the most important aspect of Shooting and Elephant in terms of the chronological and physical setting. The conflicts that are developed in relationship to it, they nonetheless have importance that can help the person who is reading understand Orwell and the novel’s theme. The topics mentioned throughout are why elephants can be dangerous. As well as, why British imperialism played a monumental role in the assassination of the animal and why Orwell ultimately decides to shoot the elephant.
First off, elephants can be unsafe because they are extremely large animals which are also territorial and will attack if you get too close to them. In this literature the elephant goes through musth, sometimes spelled “must” in English which means they are ready to mate; assuming the elephant was male. During this time, they are very aggressive and will attack almost anything that moves. This lead the natives to believe that elephant was treacherous to them. However, there is some thought that this condition is linked to a show of dominance though the link isn't exactly clear. Even if they don’t intend to, the animal’s size alone makes it one to be weary of.
Second off, British Imperialism played a monumental role in the assassination of the elephant. Imperialism is basically a policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force. It started because of social Darwinism; strong nations are obliged to dominate weaker nations. Being surrounded and engulfed by a chaotic environment, these characteristics rub off onto people. In the words of Orwell, “imperialism was an evil thing…”
Last of all, why Orwell in the end decides to shoot the elephant. Orwell believes, “There was only...