Heart of Darkness

Definition

'Heart of Darkness' is a novella by Joseph Conrad that explores the journey into the Congo River basin, a metaphorical voyage into the depths of human nature and imperialism. This narrative reflects the complexities and moral ambiguities of colonialism, showing how European powers exploited African lands and peoples while also revealing the darkness within their own souls.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Heart of Darkness' was first published in 1899 and has been interpreted as a critique of European colonialism in Africa.
2. The novella uses a frame narrative structure, where the story is recounted by Charles Marlow, who relates his experiences to others on a boat on the Thames River.
3. The character of Kurtz represents the corrupted ideals of imperialism, as he starts as a man with noble intentions but becomes morally degraded in the wilderness.
4. The imagery of darkness in the novella symbolizes both the unknown aspects of Africa and the moral darkness of European colonizers who perpetrate violence and exploitation.
5. Conrad's work raises questions about civilization versus savagery, showing how the veneer of civilization can easily be stripped away in the face of greed and power.

Review Questions

• How does 'Heart of Darkness' use symbolism to convey its themes regarding colonialism?
  • 'Heart of Darkness' employs various symbols, such as darkness itself, to illustrate the duality of civilization and savagery. The journey into the Congo becomes a metaphor for exploring not just the physical landscape but also the moral landscape of humanity. As Marlow travels deeper into Africa, he encounters both the physical brutality of colonial exploitation and the psychological horrors within Kurtz, highlighting how imperialism corrupts both the colonized and the colonizers.
• Discuss how Joseph Conrad's narrative style in 'Heart of Darkness' enhances its critique of imperialism.
  • 'Heart of Darkness' utilizes a frame narrative style that adds layers to its critique of imperialism. By having Marlow recount his story to listeners on a Thames boat, Conrad creates a distance between the audience and the events in Africa. This structure invites readers to reflect critically on the implications of Marlow’s journey and encourages them to question their own perceptions about colonialism, suggesting that even those who consider themselves civilized can harbor darkness within.
• Evaluate the significance of Kurtz's character in 'Heart of Darkness' and how it reflects broader societal issues related to imperialism.
  • Kurtz serves as a crucial figure in 'Heart of Darkness,' representing the potential for moral degradation that accompanies unchecked ambition and power in an imperial context. His transformation from an idealistic agent of civilization to a tyrannical figure reveals how imperialist pursuits can corrupt individuals. This mirrors broader societal issues by showcasing how colonialism can distort human values and lead to dehumanization, ultimately questioning whether any true civilization exists when greed dominates human behavior.

Related terms

Imperialism: 'Imperialism' refers to the policy or ideology of extending a nation's authority by territorial acquisition or by establishing economic and political dominance over other nations or territories.

Colonialism: 'Colonialism' is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically.

Postcolonialism: 'Postcolonialism' is an academic discipline that analyzes, explains, and responds to the cultural legacies of colonialism and imperialism, examining how these histories shape contemporary societies and identities.