Literary Analysis of Burmese Days by George Orwell

The novel Burmese Days is a historical fiction piece written by George Orwell that takes place in a small town within the British ruled province of Burma. Set in the 1920’s, the storyline takes place towards the end of British imperialism where each culture’s role is well established. Based on Orwell’s personal experiences in Burma, we may assume that it is a near accurate representation of the conditions of life in Burma under British rule. While the plot is intriguing, it is Orwell’s eye for detail and thought-provoking dialogue that cement itself as real-life examples. He exposes the relationship between the colonizer and colonized and the disastrous impact of imperialism on both parties. He manages to portray a beautiful illusion of the terrible practices that existed under British imperialism, such as sexist gender roles, racial prejudice, and corrupted politics.

The paper focuses on how British imperialism of Burma created an atmosphere of racial boundaries and ethnic divide that stripped the native people of their identity. It instilled a sense of superiority for the Europeans who viewed themselves as “absolute masters” over the Asians, who were deemed inferior. This treatment is exacerbated for women who were consistently treated as dirt and uneducated. When U Po Kyin speaks of his reincarnation into the next life, he desperately hopes that he returns as man. The truth of inequality existent in Burmese society is not the product of British rule, but rather a natural representation of the early 1900s. Even women in white society had to adhere to unfair playing grounds. Orwell is not afraid to voice his concerns and thoughts of white supremacy which have been around forever. However, this level of thought is not unanimously shared as some even go as far as to consider all non-white humans are inferior life forms. But without racism, imperialism would not have played such an important role in history. Orwell depicts the extent of racism in order to keep the natives in Burma under control and to quell any attempt at national self-determination. He describes racism as prejudice and power, since without the political and economic power, prejudice would not be such a dominant and cultural institution.

Orwell’s portray of superiority of White British colonizers over non-white native Burmese and Indians does not shy away from specific details. His concern of the possible acceptance of natives into the exclusive European Club shed light on the reality of life under British rule in Burma. Even the mention of accepting a native into their all-white club elicits a strong reaction from Ellis, who is by far the least progressive, claiming he would rather die than be in the same club as a black, stinking swine. His sentiment is shared by most of the Englishmen who see no admirable qualities in the Burmese natives and see them as lazy and uneducated. In an exchange between a master and butler in the club, the detailed recount of the conversation is so disturbing that it could only have been based from a real life.

‘“Butler!” ... “How much ice have we got left?” “'Bout 20 pounds, master. Will only last today, I think. I find it very difficult to keep ice cool now.” “Don't you talk like that, damn you — ‘I find it very difficult!’ Have you swallowed a dictionary? ‘Please, master, can't keeping ice cool’ — that's how you ought to talk. We shall have to sack this fellow if he gets to talk English too well. I can't stick with servants who talk English. D'you hear, butler?”’ (Orwell, 34).

While reading the novel, I found it confusing to understand why Orwell chose to tell the story from Flory’s perspective, despite being based on his own experiences. It seemed that in order to shape the impact of his views on imperialism through the viewpoint of his characters, he inevitably splits his mixed opinions into the opposing characters Flory and Dr. Veraswami. Flory contained the anti-imperialistic sentiments while the Doctor represented the contrast. Flory offers valuable insight into the corruption embedded within the whole imperialistic endeavor. On the outside, the British government operates under the circumstance that it is their duty to help teach the uncivilized people and bring them to the modern era. In reality, this is just the pompous face of imperialism, with the real intention being to steal resources and further exacerbate vulnerable populations. By stealing property and forcing slaver upon them, the British is able to profit off of their hardships. Yet there is a silver lining to this situation, as one character understands. U Po Kyin realized early on that his people could not compete with the European giants, and that fighting with the British is better than being on the receiving end. The Burmese people understand their rank and own purpose within this hierarchical chain. They understand that being a servant or even government official is their best means of social mobility.

Taking the time to read and research this book, it is evident that Orwell’s novel is meant to challenge British imperialism by exposing how far removed the British mission has strayed. The abuse of this unjust system and intentional sabotage of the Burmese population retrospectively delivers the downfall of British colonialism in India.

Orwell takes the reader back into the era of British imperialism to deliver a heartfelt message about the hardships and daily challenges for the people living under British imperialism. He paints the downfall of British rule through the rejection of its culture and exploitation of its native population. Through his determination to retrace the events of his life as colonial police officer in northern Burma, he renders a sharp critique of British imperialism and its use of exploitation and racism to exposes its hypocrisy.