Outpost of Progress | Objects, Setting & Important Places

Outpost of Progress Objects/Places

The Trading Station in Africa

The main building sits in a clearing in the African forest near a large river. It is built out of reeds, with a verandah on all of the four sides. This place is occupied by Kayerts and Carlier. It has three rooms with plank floors, little furniture, and contains the litter of the two men. Conrad's portrayal of the building really does make it sound like an outpost. There is a sense that this is a very temporary living site. If left unattended, it would be swallowed up by the verdant forest within a short period of time.

Makola's Home

Makola lives in a shed on the trading station property.

The Station's Storehouse

Containing a variety of items such as beads, cotton cloth, wire, the building is made out of clay and has a dried-grass roof.

The River

The station is near a powerful river. The two white men have no control over what the river brings...
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