68. The British Empire

In 'Flashman and the Mountain of Light', George MacDonald Fraser continues the adventures of Sir Harry Flashman, a fictionalized version of the bully from 'Tom Brown's School Days'. The novel is set during the First Sikh War and involves Flashman in the complex politics of the Punjabi court, culminating in his involvement with the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Known for its blend of historical accuracy and humor, the book offers a thrilling narrative of Flashman's escapades.

In 'Dominion,' Matthew Scully presents a comprehensive and eloquent case against the mistreatment of animals. The book delves into various aspects of animal suffering, including factory farming, hunting, whaling, and laboratory experiments. Scully challenges the notion that humans have unlimited dominion over animals, as suggested by biblical interpretations, and argues for a moral and compassionate approach to animal treatment. He draws on both religious and scientific perspectives to make his case, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the recognition of animal consciousness and suffering. The book is a call to action for reform and a plea for human benevolence and mercy towards animals.

The Tempest, written around 1610-1611, is one of Shakespeare's last solo works. The play revolves around Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, who was usurped by his brother Antonio and left to die at sea with his infant daughter Miranda. They survive and find refuge on a remote island, where Prospero masters magic and enslaves the native Caliban and the spirit Ariel. When a ship carrying his enemies passes by, Prospero conjures a tempest to bring them ashore. The play explores themes of magic, betrayal, revenge, and forgiveness as Prospero manipulates the shipwrecked characters to rectify past wrongs and ultimately forgives them. The story also includes the romance between Ferdinand, the King of Naples' son, and Miranda, and ends with Prospero's decision to return to Milan and reclaim his dukedom[2][3][5].

Heart of Darkness, written by Joseph Conrad, is a novella that examines the horrors of Western colonialism. The story is narrated by Marlow, who recounts his journey as a riverboat captain for a Belgian trading company in the Congo. Marlow's journey takes him deep into the African jungle, where he encounters the enigmatic and brutal ivory trader Kurtz. The novella delves into themes of power dynamics, morality, and the psychological impact of colonialism on both the colonizers and the colonized. It is a landmark of modern fiction, known for its narrative and symbolic power, as well as its acute psychological penetration[2][3][5].

In this book, Niall Ferguson argues that the British Empire played a crucial role in shaping the modern world. He details how the empire's expansion from the seventeenth to the mid-twentieth century led to the global spread of capitalism, telecommunications, the English language, and institutions of representative government. Ferguson also examines the complexities and controversies of the empire, including its ruthless defense and the imposition of Western norms on other cultures. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and rigorous historical analysis, offering a balanced view of the empire's achievements and pitfalls[1][3][5].

In 'Empireland', Sathnam Sanghera offers a fresh critique of the British Empire and its lasting impact on British society. The book is a personal journey of discovery, where Sanghera explores how the Empire has influenced his own life and the broader British culture. He delves into the complex legacies of the Empire, discussing its formation, its moral complexities, and its ongoing effects on demographics, attitudes, and cultural norms. Sanghera argues against a simplistic 'balance sheet view of history', instead presenting a nuanced and balanced account that highlights both the beneficial and harmful aspects of the Empire. The book also addresses issues such as slavery, racism, and the exploitation of colonial resources, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the Empire's history and its continued influence on modern Britain.