Deeznuts

4-11-16

Heart of Darkness Questions

1. Discuss the significance of the title of this novel. State how you know the title is significant, and identify at least three things that the phrase “heart of darkness” may signify?

The significance of the title is very necessary because it helps set an early mood on what the novel will be about. The 3 things that the title “Heart of Darkness” could show might include how the human mind has evil, how the a country can bring evil and darkness to anybody, and how awful ideologies a dark or evil person.

2. A number of times the river (the Congo) is described as a snake. In the Bible, the snake is an obvious symbol. Can you suggest any relationship between these two symbols?

The reader can see that the relationship between the two can obviously suggest that both are equally evil and dark. The book shows tons of instances that are far from joyful.

3. Conrad goes to some lengths to avoid using geographic place names. For example, although the reader knows he is referring to London, Brussels, Africa, and the Congo River, Conrad rarely mentions places specifically. Why do you suppose he avoids using their names?

He avoids using the names because he wants the reader to contrast and imagine their own thoughts on the place described.

4. How are native Africans described? How do these descriptions compare to those of Europeans?

The native Africans are described in an inferior tone throughout the novel.

5. The novel begins and ends on a boat tied up in the Thames River. Identify the significance of the last line in the novel.

The significance of the first and last line is it shows that all around us, there is a feel of darkness due to humanities’ actions towards society.

6. Given distaste for lies, are you surprised when Marlow lies to Kurtz’s fiancée? Why or why not? In the same situation, what would you have done?

Although initially surprised, it makes sense what Marlow said to...