Plot Overview Heart of Darkness centers around Marlow, an introspective sailor, and his journey up the Congo River to meet Kurtz, reputed to be an idealistic man of great abilities. ... The cruelty and squalor of imperial enterprise contrasts sharply with the impassive and majestic jungle that surrounds the white man's settlements, making them appear to be tiny islands amidst a vast darkness. ... Unlike those who truly confront or at least acknowledge Africa and the darkness within themselves, Marlow does not die, but unlike the Company men, who focus only on money and advancement, ...

• Word Count: 3088
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

One can see the parallels between these ideas presented in the poem and those in Heart of Darkness. ... In Heart of Darkness Kurtz had hundreds of Africans working for him bringing in ivory and these people got nothing in return but terror. ... Colonialism comes in many forms besides the one it took in Heart of Darkness in the 19th century. ... Heart of Darkness and "The White Man's Burden" both dealt with the same topic, but in different ways. ... When studying Heart of Darkness, reading critical essays is very useful in forming one's own opinion. ...

• Word Count: 4292
• Approx Pages: 17
• Grade Level: High School