Imperialism has been a constant oppressive force on societies dating back hundreds of years. Heart of Darkness, by Joseph Conrad, illustrates this oppression by providing an example of its occurrence in the African Congo, while also setting the stage for The Poisonwood Bible, which is essentially a continuation of the story. The Poisonwood Bible, by Barbara Kingsolver, demonstrates how the Congo is still influenced by modern circumstances and ideology. Conrad's novella acts as a sort of precursor to the events later described in Kingsolver's novel, and it is this connection between the stories that illustrates the perpetual oppression of imperialism. This oppression is shown through the characterization of the central characters of each respective text. The oppression, inflicted on the Congo in hopes of spreading imperialism, is highlighted by the main characters. Both Kurtz and Nathan seek to change the very lives and beliefs of the people of the Congo and establish supremacy over them, and both of these characters share a dark heart and a tainted determination in their endeavor. For Conrad's seminal character, the level of intelligence, sophistication and civilization is the real dilemma in Africa. Kurtz goes to Congo to civilize an uncivilized people, to transform the "savages" into honest men and women who can contribute to the productivity of society. Kingsolver, by contrast, illustrates the drive towards a conversion of both Church and State. The Poisonwood Bible describes the invasion of a society, not simply a people grouped into “savages,” and shows the society being warped and forced to conform to American ideology. Rather than the sophistication of its people, Nathan journal… half the journal… imperialism has evolved. In both Conrad's Heart of Darkness and Kingsolver's The Poisonwood Bible, Africa is invaded and altered to conform to the desires of more "civilized" people. Although this oppression in the Congo never seems to cease, the natives are constantly able to overcome obstacles and tyrants, and thus prove to be as civilized towards them and capable of development as the white nations. As Orleanna herself says: “Call it oppression, complicity, amazement, call it what you will… Africa has swallowed the music of the conqueror and sung a new song of its own” (Kingsolver 385). Kingsolver illustrates that while individuals may always seek to control and alter the region, the inhabitants and victims of tyranny and oppression live on and continue to overcome it, making the state of the area nearly as perpetual as the desire to control it..