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George Orwell

Shooting an Elephant

Shooting an Elephant

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Shooting an Elephant is an essay by George Orwell that was first published by Penguin in 1940. It is a searing and honest account of his experience as a police officer in imperial Burma, where he killed an escaped elephant to avoid looking like a fool.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 07 January 2021
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd


"Shooting an Elephant" is a seminal work by George Orwell, published by Penguin in 1940. This essay offers a profound and unflinching insight into the nature of imperialism and the underlying motives that drive despotic governments to act.

Orwell's personal experience as a police officer in imperial Burma serves as the backdrop for this essay. In it, he recounts the harrowing incident of shooting an escaped elephant in front of a crowd, solely to avoid appearing foolish.

Through this anecdote, Orwell exposes the hollowness and hypocrisy of imperialism. He demonstrates how the British colonial authorities in Burma used violence and coercion to maintain control over the local population, often at the expense of human dignity and morality.

The essay is characterized by Orwell's sharp wit and incisive analysis. He uses vivid imagery and powerful language to convey his message, making it both accessible and thought-provoking.

"Shooting an Elephant" remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers worldwide. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of imperialism and the importance of standing up against oppression and tyranny.

In conclusion, "Shooting an Elephant" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of imperialism and the human cost of political power. George Orwell's powerful writing and insightful analysis make this essay a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and educate us today.

Weight: 32g
Dimension: 185 x 115 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241515006

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