The Empress Themes : Racism

Question 1

What does Lord Salisbury believe about English constituencies electing a representative?

Answer 1

An English constituency is not ready to elect a ‘Black man’ to represent them

This reflects racial prejudices in political representation.

Question 2

What role does the Serang play in relation to the Lascars?

Answer 2

The Serang drives the Lascars to work harder

This suggests a hierarchical structure where the Serang manages the labor of Lascars.

Question 3

How do English sailors’ experiences compare to the Lascars according to Hari?

Answer 3

English sailors seem to have an easier time of it

This highlights disparities in working conditions between different groups.

Question 4

What is DADABHAI’s opinion of John Bull?

Answer 4

John Bull is nothing more than an opium peddler, a slave trader, and a violent thug

This critique portrays John Bull as a symbol of British imperialism and exploitation.

Question 5

What does DADABHAI claim nations are suffering from due to taxes and trade restrictions?

Answer 5

Nations are being enslaved

This indicates a broader critique of colonial economic practices.

Question 6

Fill in the blank: According to Abdul, if only your agents abroad were as _______ as you are, then the world would be a happier place.

Answer 6

[high-minded]

This emphasizes the idealism of the speaker in contrast to the reality of agents abroad.