elpais.com
Review: Emilio Salgari's Anti-Colonial Adventures
A book review discusses the author's reading of two Emilio Salgari novels, "Los dos rivales," featuring Sandokan's involvement in the suppression of the Thugs during the Indian Mutiny, and "En las montañas del Atlas," depicting the harsh realities of the French Foreign Legion in Algeria, highlighting Salgari's anti-colonial themes.
- How do Salgari's novels, specifically "Los dos rivales" and "En las montañas del Atlas," portray colonial powers and their impact?
- Both novels, "Los dos rivales" and "En las montañas del Atlas," showcase Salgari's narrative style and his recurring themes of adventure and anti-colonial sentiment. "Los dos rivales" features Sandokan aiding the British against the Thugs, while "En las montañas del Atlas" portrays the harsh realities of the French Foreign Legion in Algeria.
- What are the main themes explored in Emilio Salgari's novels "Los dos rivales" and "En las montañas del Atlas," as described by the author?
- The author recounts reading "Los dos rivales," a 1955 edition of a Sandokan novel, and "En las montañas del Atlas," a 1907 novel featuring the French Foreign Legion. These readings highlight the author's appreciation for author Emilio Salgari's works, which often depict colonial powers in a critical light.
- What is the significance of Salgari's blending of historical events with fictional narratives in his novels, and what insights does it offer?
- Salgari's work, even when incorporating historical events like the Indian Mutiny, ultimately prioritizes adventure and the deconstruction of colonial heroism. His blending of historical events and fictional narratives offers a unique perspective on imperialism and the realities experienced by those involved.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed through the lens of the author's personal appreciation for Sandokan, shaping the reader's understanding as a celebration of adventure novels rather than a critical analysis of the author or the historical context. The focus on personal anecdotes and emotional responses to the books influences the overall tone.
Language Bias
The language is enthusiastic and evocative, using terms like "fierce," "terrible," and "fiery." While enhancing the engaging nature of the text, these choices deviate from neutral reporting. Consider using more descriptive but less charged language to maintain objectivity. For example, instead of "fierce pride," use "intense pride.
Bias by Omission
The text focuses heavily on the author's personal connection to Sandokan and the books, potentially omitting broader critical perspectives on Salgari's work or historical context. While the author mentions some historical inaccuracies and the colonial context, a more in-depth analysis of these aspects would enrich the piece.
Gender Bias
The text presents women largely through stereotypical tropes associated with adventure stories (the beloved, the damsel). While Surama is portrayed as a warrior, this is within the established genre conventions. A more nuanced exploration of female characters in Salgari's work could improve gender balance.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article discusses Sandokan, a fictional character who fights against British colonialism. While fictional, the narrative implicitly critiques colonial power imbalances and highlights the struggle against oppression, aligning with the SDG of Reduced Inequalities by showcasing the fight against systemic injustice and advocating for a more equitable world, even if in a fictional context. The story's focus on the rebellion against colonial rule indirectly addresses the power imbalances inherent in colonial systems.