Heart of Darkness
“Heart of Darkness” is a novella by Polish-British novelist Joseph Conrad, first published in 1899. The story follows the journey of Charles Marlow as he travels up the Congo River to meet the enigmatic Mr. Kurtz. Set against the backdrop of European colonialism in Africa, the novel delves into themes of imperialism, the darkness of human nature, and the blurred lines between civilization and savagery.
About This Ebook
“Heart of Darkness” serves as both a critique of 19th-century European colonial expansion and an exploration of the depths of human nature. The protagonist, Charles Marlow, is hired by a Belgian trading company to captain a steamship up the Congo River. Along his journey, he hears numerous tales about Kurtz, a man who has gained immense power and influence in the region. As Marlow gets closer to Kurtz, he witnesses the brutal reality of colonial rule, including the exploitation and oppression of indigenous peoples. Upon finally meeting Kurtz, Marlow discovers that he has been utterly corrupted by power and has descended into madness. Through the character of Kurtz, Conrad exposes the darkness within humanity. Additionally, Marlow’s narrative voice critiques the notion of civilization and questions the moral foundations of European imperialism.