Under Western Eyes - Classic Text | Alexandria
Under Western Eyes, a psychological and political novel by Joseph Conrad published in 1911, is an exploration of autocracy, revolution, and betrayal set against the backdrop of Tsarist Russia and Western Europe. More than a simple political thriller, the novel probes the moral complexities of a student, Razumov, caught between his allegiance to the state and his entanglement in revolutionary violence, inviting a critical examination of both Russian and Western perspectives.
Conrad’s inspiration stemmed from his own experiences and observations of Russian émigré communities in Geneva, a hub for political dissidents. The seeds of the novel were sown in letters dating as early as 1908, where Conrad articulated his intent to delve into the mindset of a Russian intellectual under pressure. The era, marked by revolutionary fervor following the 1905 Russian Revolution and widespread social unrest, provided fertile ground for a narrative questioning the legitimacy of autocratic power and the nature of revolutionary idealism. The novel critiques not only the repressive nature of Tsarist Russia but also the often naive and romanticized view of revolution held by Western observers.
The novel gained significance for its nuanced portrayal of Russian psychology and the complex relationship between individual conscience and political action. Over time, interpretations have shifted, with some focusing on the novel’s anti-revolutionary stance, while others read it as a critique of Western ignorance and moral relativism. A particularly intriguing aspect often overlooked is Conrad's use of a Western narrator, whose interpretations are inherently biased, prompting readers to question the reliability of any single perspective. The novel stands as a testament to the ethical dilemmas inherent in political upheaval, even in the face of violence.
Under Western Eyes continues to resonate, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of both unchecked power and uncritical revolutionary zeal. It remains a text of significant political and philosophical depth, prompting contemporary readers to consider the lasting impact of ideological conflict on individual lives and national destinies. Does the West truly understand the East, or are we forever viewing it through a distorting lens of our own preconceptions?