Which nightmare to choose? : A study of Heart of Darkness

Abstract

This sludy of Conrad’s lioarl of aims aL a close Lextual ¿inalysis of tlie relaLionship between Marlow and Kurtz, ttie two main cluiracters of the novel, and of the role civilisation plays in determining tlie fate of that relationship in the light Freudian theory sheds on the problems that arise from a reading of the novel. Chapter one is an examination of an introductory nature. Attention is focused on previous liteг¿ıгy criticism on He/yrt u£ Darkness, and on what Freud himself has to say on the nature of civilisation and the indiv idual.. Chapter two aims at a close textucil analysis of the novel, particular attention being given to Mcirlow, wlio, after embarking on a journey in need of an assertion of his individuality, experiences a curious transformation of liis feelings during tlie journey. Chapter three t.iikos up wliere Chapter l:wo leaves off. Attcnition is now focused; first on the identification between Marlow and Kurtz, secondly on Marlow’s rejection of wl)at Kurtz stands for, and lastly on his return to civilisat.ion. Chapter four is a discussion and a summary of what has been said of the relationship l)etween Miirlow and Kurtz, and of the effect of civilisation on that relationsliip.