Theme of the Heart

Paper Summary:

In this literary study, the novels 'Heart of Darkness' by Joseph Conrad and 'The Passion' by Jeanette Winterson are compared and contrasted. The writer shows how the theme of the heart is symbolically presented in both novels, revealing the darkness of self-discovery that the Villanelle and Marlow must undergo in their journey into madness and despair. The writer further demonstrates that reality is the key facet of human nature that ultimately disillusions Marlow, and is also why Villanelle cannot regain her heart without the help of Henri.

From the Paper:

"This literary study examines the theme of "the heart" within the novels: 'Heart of Darkness' by Joseph Conrad and 'The Passion' by Jeanette Winterson. By understanding how Conrad and Winterson use the symbolic heart invoke the loss and fear though isolation, one can realize the impact that the heart has within both novels. In the case of Winterson's character Villanelle, the loss of her heart to a woman at a casino reveals the cruelty of human nature, as she must suffer as a prostitute. In relation to this, Conrad defines the heart less symbolically as an object, but equally refers to the isolation and fear of Marlowe traveling through colonial Africa."

More papers on Theme of the Heart :

• Analytical Essay # 58373 : "Marlow's Journey: A Journey of the Heart"
• Analytical Essay # 31917 : "Desert of the Heart"
• Book Review # 32467 : "Desert of the Heart"

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