Heart of Darkness

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer points out that Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness' draws a parallel between the physical journey of the main character, Marlow, and his mental or spiritual journey as he travels more deeply into the physical darkness of the African continent. The writer notes that the physical journey is then indicative as he becomes increasingly aware of the darkness in the human soul, which culminates in the character of Kurtz. Further the writer notes that when Kurtz dies, the darkness reaches its ultimate level, and for Marlow, there is no return. The writer discusses that in terms of point of view, the novel is structured in an interesting way.

From the Paper:

"This indicates a gradual shift of viewpoint from the Western, or civilized, to the uncivilized. In this, Marlow's viewpoint shift foreshadows his meeting with Kurtz. The latter is iconic of the completion of this viewpoint. The reader is therefore prepared for an increased contact with darkness as Marlow travels deeper into the physical darkness of Africa towards the ultimate heart of the matter personified in Kurtz. The decay of Kurtz's station indicates not only his absence, but also his lingering influence during the time when he was present at the station. It is central to the novel to note that the barbarian nature of the natives influenced the Western-born Kurtz and Marlow to a greater degree than their civilization. The novel closes with the indication that barbarism waits just beneath the surface of even the highest civilization. In this, Conrad makes his point regarding the true nature of humanity."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkness. University of Virginia, 1999. Online version: http://etext.virginia.edu/toc/modeng/public/ConDark.html
• Mohring, Brent. "Heart of Darkness". 2007. http://caxton.stockton.edu/brent/stories/storyReader$19

More papers on Heart of Darkness:

• Analytical Essay # 141464 : "Human Nature in "Heart of Darkness"
• Analytical Essay # 149305 : "Marlow in Heart of Darkness: A Colonial Co-conspirator or A Subversive Sympathizer?"
• Analytical Essay # 141458 : "Human Nature in Conrad's "Heart of Darkness"
• Analytical Essay # 46854 : "Heart of Darkness": Kurtz and Marlow Compared"

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