The summary of “Burmese Days” by George Orwell
“Burmese Days” is a novel written by George Orwell, first published in 1934. Set in the British colonial town of Kyauktada (based on Katha, a town in present-day Myanmar), the story offers a scathing critique of British imperialism and the inherent racism and corruption that permeated colonial society.
The protagonist of the story is John Flory, a lonely and disillusioned British timber merchant in his mid-thirties. Flory is among the small European community residing in Kyauktada, where they lead a stifling and isolated existence. He feels like an outsider due to his sympathetic views toward the Burmese people and his disdain for the rampant racism and exploitation prevalent among his fellow Europeans.
The novel begins with Flory’s discovery of a young woman bathing in a pool near his timber camp. She is Ma Hla May, a beautiful Burmese woman, and Flory becomes infatuated with her. Flory’s attraction to a native woman is scandalous and frowned upon in the deeply prejudiced colonial society.
Throughout the story, Orwell introduces a host of characters that represent various facets of colonial life. Among them are U Po Kyin, a corrupt and cunning Burmese magistrate who seeks to climb the social ladder and attain a prestigious position in the British administration. U Po Kyin becomes the antagonist of the novel, orchestrating deceitful schemes to destroy Flory’s reputation and secure his own advancement.
Another significant character is Elizabeth Lackersteen, the niece of a local magistrate. She is a beautiful but shallow and bigoted young woman who embodies the typical colonial mindset. Elizabeth is engaged to the naive and somewhat dim-witted Flory, who seeks her approval and love but realizes that their values and beliefs are fundamentally incompatible.
To counteract Flory’s influence and position herself better in the colonial hierarchy, Elizabeth introduces the charismatic but racist and vulgar Lieutenant Verrall. Verrall’s arrival further complicates Flory’s life, as he becomes romantically involved with Ma Hla May, further intensifying the social and racial tensions within the community.
Throughout the novel, Orwell highlights the deep-rooted prejudice and discrimination faced by the Burmese people at the hands of their colonial oppressors. He explores the toxic dynamic between the colonizers and the colonized, illustrating how the British exploit and subjugate the native population, perpetuating an oppressive system that benefits the imperialists.
As the plot unfolds, U Po Kyin employs deceit and cunning to manipulate Flory into a compromising position, hoping to ruin his reputation and prospects. U Po Kyin falsely accuses Flory of embezzling timber funds, which puts Flory’s career and social standing at risk. Moreover, Flory’s liberal views and friendships with some Burmese individuals make him a target for the resentful and xenophobic European community.
Faced with the prospect of disgrace and loss of his livelihood, Flory contemplates various options, including standing up for the truth, but he ultimately succumbs to societal pressure and takes his own life, highlighting the devastating consequences of living in an oppressive and prejudiced society.
Orwell’s portrayal of the characters and setting in “Burmese Days” is vivid and powerful. He masterfully captures the stifling atmosphere of the colonial town and portrays the characters’ internal conflicts and struggles with remarkable insight. The novel’s exploration of themes such as imperialism, racism, loneliness, and the corrupting influence of power is as relevant today as it was when the book was written.
“Burmese Days” stands as a powerful critique of British colonial rule and its destructive impact on both the oppressors and the oppressed. Orwell’s unflinching portrayal of the complexities of human nature, as well as his condemnation of racial prejudice and injustice, make this novel a thought-provoking and enduring work of literature.