AP LIT

Heart of Darkness
Book Club Packet

Quotes:
“And this also, said Marlow suddenly, has been one of the dark places of the Earth” (pg. 67)
“For the rest, after his hours of work, a casual stroll or a casual spree on shore suffices to unfold for him the secret of a
whole continent, and generally he finds the secret not worth knowing” (pg. 68)
“It was just robbery with violence, aggravated murder on a great scale, and men going at it blind- as is very proper for
those who tackle a darkness.” (pg. 69)
“The conquest of the earth, which mostly mean the taking it away from those who have a different complexion or slightly
flatter noses than ourselves, is not a pretty thing when you look into it too much.” (69)

Section I LONDON—THE THAMES SETTING:

1) Who is the narrator? What kind of person is he?

The narrator is Marlow, a complicated man who speaks of experience.
2) Notice the description of the tide, river, and ships. What atmosphere does Conrad create by his description of the
Thames scene?
Conrad creates a mysterious atmosphere through his description of the Thames scene. Words such as “luminous”
and “mournful gloom” are used to describe the setting.
3) Who are the friends of Marlow who are on board the Nellie with him? Record their occupations. What do their
various occupations suggest about the subjects important to the novel?
Marlow describes four friends who are on board the Nellie with him. The Director of Companies is the captain
and The Lawyer, The Accountant, Marlow, and the Director are also on-board. The Lawyer could represent
morality and the distinction between right and wrong. The Accountant could represent the financial aspect of
imperialism. The Director could represent a conflict of emotions that could occur within the story.
4) Marlow is like the setting of the river—the “brooding” nature that he describes. The narrator says that he sits like
an “idol.” What is suggested by his sitting position and his state of mind?
Marlow’s description depicts an older man who is similar to the Thames in which he has seen change. Marlow
seems to be in a state of inner reflection as he looks out at the Thames and his sitting position like an “idol”
suggests he is contemplative.
5) What is Marlow’s background and experience? How is he different from the others?
Marlow is an experienced seaman who knows of the past history of the river. Although they all share a love of the
sea, Marlow seems to have seen a different side to the life of a seaman.
6) What does Marlow mean by his comments on the telling of a story? On the “kernel” and “the misty halo”?
Marlow’s comments on the telling of a story suggest that the true value in storytelling is to look deeper into the
underlying meaning and value. The “kernel” refers to the layers of storytelling and how Marlow sees the value of
storytelling in the deeper meaning that the narrator expresses.
7) As the ship sits at anchor on the Thames, Marlow is reminded of the past. The Thames is a“waterway. . . to the
utmost ends of the earth”; the river represents the “spirit of the past.” Why has the Thames been “one of the dark
places”? What is the significance of the reference to the invasions of the Romans?
The Thames has been in “dark places” because Britain was not always the established empire that Marlow looks
out upon the water. Marlow has seen the effects of imperialism and the darker truth behind how the British empire
expanded and came to be such a powerhouse. The reference to the invasion of the Romans comments on the sense
of invincibility that comes with being a powerhouse empire. After Britain was invaded, the empire grew and
Britain began expanding, similar to the Romans who were once a dynasty.
8) What are some of Marlow’s ideas and values?
Marlow emanates a reserved nature and he is able to recognize the wrongs that he witnesses with the expansion of
the British empire.
 9) Look at the description of the map that Marlow studies as he contemplates his journey. Why is the river like a
snake?
The river is described as a snake to highlight the danger that lies within exploration. The river is also described as
a snake as the river coils through the heart of England.
10) Why does Marlow want to go to the Congo? How does he get the appointment?
Marlow wants to go to the Congo to get a job and be able to explore. He gets the appointment with the help of his
aunt.
11) What is Marlow’s attitude toward women? Look at the references to his aunt, for example.
Marlow has a sour attitude towards women and expresses his frustration with their disillusionment of the real
world. Marlow lacks respect for women.
12) Who is Fresleven?
Fresleven was the former captain of Marlow’s ship in the Congo who was killed by natives after an argument over
two black hens. He was known by all as a non-violent and peaceful individual, but after being in the Congo for an
extended period, his behavior shifted and he attacked a village chief before he was killed.
13) What effect is created by Marlow’s interruption by the first narrator? The narrative technique in the novel is like a
series of Chinese boxes—Conrad the author, an unnamed narrator who tells us about Marlow, Marlow who tells
about his journey and about Kurtz, and the voice of Kurtz who is the innermost voice. What thematic and
narrative purposes might be served by these layers of narrative voices? [“he paused”...”He broke off. .
...inconclusive experiences”...”He was silent for a while”...3 times]
The different narratives give the reader different accounts of the world around them through their own personal
experiences and knowledge. Marlow, as a seaman, has seen different parts of the world and endured various
experiences which have tainted his worldview. With Conrad’s chosen writing style, the reader is able to shift
perspectives.

BRUSSELS—PREPARATION FOR THE JOURNEY:

1) In what way do “the women” help Marlow?

The women help Marlow to acquire a job on the steamer.
2) As you read, notice the ways in which women are presented in the narrative. Try to develop a concept of what you
think Marlow’s attitude toward women is. Notice that even though his aunt gets the job for him, he observes near
the end of this section that she is like other women “out of touch with truth.” What does he mean?
Marlow’s overall attitude towards women is negative as he shows frustration towards his aunt for her naive
worldview that is sheltered. Women are “out of touch with truth” as they have yet to see the consequences of
industrialization and imperialism on the natives who live there and the dark truth behind the countries’ continued
expansion.
3) What kind of place is Brussels? What mood is associated with this city?
Brussels is a gray, gloomy place that eminantes this mood with its rotting and abandoned buildings that contribute
to the overall mood of this city.
4) Explain the comparison of Brussels to a whited sepulcher.
The comparison of Brussels to a whited sepulcher has the effect of highlighting the dreary, gloomy, and death that
is associated with Brussels.
5) What is the doctor’s “quiet joke”?
The doctor’s “quiet joke” referred to the changes that seamen experience mentally when they travel to the Congo.
The doctor also warns Marlow of the danger he is in as the venture has only caused madness and defeat.
6) How does Marlow feel before he leaves for the Congo? (mentally and physically )
Marlow is ready for a change but following the doctor’s warning, he is hesitant to subject himself to conditions
where madness is probable and others have died. He feels physically prepared but is mentally nervous for the
journey ahead.
7) Marlow builds a series of images to describe the Company Office. Many of these details have traditional symbolic
meanings. Think about the meanings of the following, and if possible connect them to either the Bible or classical
mythology:
“whited sepulchre”: Associated with death and being a death-bed
narrow street- Symbolizes fate and a potential dark future
two women knitting- Corresponds to fate and the thread of life
the deadly snake- Corresponds to danger and the devil
the center of the map, of Africa, of the earth- Represents the center of evil and darkness
 the color black- Relates to death, mystique, darkness, evil, and power
the doctor who prophesies madness- Corresponds to fate
the sun- The mystery to which Marlow moved
the imposter character type- Marlow feels as if he is an imposter in the Congo, as the nature of the company and
those involved do not reflect the same values as Marlow.
the archetypal journey- Marlow goes on the archetypal journey to find his place in the world with him finding his
own beliefs and activities that give his life a purpose.

THE JOURNEY TO THE INNER STATION:

1) What does Marlow learn when he overhears the manager and his uncle? What new image of Kurtz is suggested?
Note the mixture of idealistic beliefs and rumors.
Marlow overhears how Kurtz may have taken a shipment of ivory for himself. The conversation between the
manager and his uncle causes Marlow to see firsthand the greed and power that the company has over the people
of the Congo. The manager and Marlow’s uncle also speak of their plot to overthrow Kurtz.
2) What are Marlow’s difficulties as skipper on the trip upriver?
Marlow experiences boat difficulties that he must repair and he is forced to captain the boat as well. The intense
climate of the Congo was also a challenge as Marlow and the crew faced humid, hot conditions and heavy
downpours. As they continued upriver, Marlow felt as if they were going back in time when seeing the natives
and their way of life that has not been touched by the modern era.
3) Study the descriptions of the river—”the hidden evil” and “the profound darkness of its heart.” Find other
descriptive phrases.
The river acts as a metaphor as the farther the crew travels upstream, the farther they get away from the modern
era.
LIFE ON THE RIVER

1) In what dual sense is Marlow “penetrating deeper and deeper into the heart of darkness”?
Marlow is penetrating deeper into the heart of darkness physically and spiritually as he travels upstream. As they
get farther and farther upstream, they get deeper into the heart of darkness physically and mentally closer to
madness.
2) What do the circumstances of his journey contribute to his assertion that human beings need“a deliberate belief”?
Do you agree with him? What is his belief in?
As Marlow witnesses more and more mistreatment of the natives in the Congo, his beliefs are reaffirmed that
there are darker truths to how things have come to be. Marlow’s assertion that humans need a deliberate belief is
reinforced by witnessing others lose sight of their intended purpose to go into the Congo, like seen by the former
steamboat captain who died after attacking a native.
3) What are readers to think of the natives depicted in Heart of Darkness?
The treatment of the natives evoke feelings of sympathy from the readers, yet the natives are still introduced and
viewed as savages who lack the civility that Marlow has.
4) What does Marlow learn from An Inquiry into Some Points of Seamanship?
Marlow learns the value of beliefs and is also enlightened on the importance of work to keep one busy and
humble.
5) Marlow again insists on the importance of his work, of being at work. Why?
Malow insists that work is essential to keeping a healthy mindset and staying busy after what he learned from the
book, An Inquiry Into Some Points of Seamanship.
6) Marlow says that the “essentials of this affair lay deep under the surface.” How does his subsequent description of
the landscape capture that hiddenness? How does the fog affect Marlow’s attitude toward his work?
The landscape is depicted as a mysterious, quiet surrounding that helps to capture the hiddenness of the landscape.
The fog symbolizes danger, darkness, and mystery.
7) Marlow is very complimentary of the cannibals on board his ship. Why? Think about the ways in which the
Europeans Marlow has met have not shown “restraint.”
The cannibals are men who show restraint when other members of the crew don’t, as the Europeans cannot
restrain themselves from hurting the natives, whereas the cannibals are able to restrain themselves from eating
others onboard despite their ravenous appetites.
 8) Who is the “enchanted princess sleeping in a fabulous castle”? Is the language of the description appropriate?
Explain.
The description is not appropriate as Kurtz, the “enchanted princess sleeping in a fabulous castle”, is not doing
anything that relates to a princess.
9) How do you interpret Marlow’s remarks about “the women”?
Marlow views women to be in their own world that cannot be disturbed as they stay protected from the reality of
life and the grim conditions in the Congo and other places.
10) Why do the natives attack?
The natives attacked as they did not want Kurtz to leave.
11) Why does Marlow react as he does to the murder of his helmsman? Why does he throw away his shoes?
Marlow is shocked by the grusome murder of his helmsman and disgusted by the gore. He throws away his shoes
as they are covered in blood.
12) The pilgrims shoot into the jungle. Remember the warship shooting into the African coastline? What is Marlow
suggesting is alike about the two?
Marlow is suggesting that imperialism consists of blind actions as both the pilgrims and the warship fire into
unknown territory.
13) For what different reasons do the cannibal crewmen and the pilgrims object to Marlow’s disposal of the dead
helmsman?
The cannibal crewmen want to eat the dead helmsman, while the pilgrims want to give the helmsman a proper
burial. Marlow decides to dispose of the dead helmsman overboard.
14) What does Marlow think of his companions on the steamer?
Marlow thinks that the Pilgrims are primitive and the cannibals are praise-worthy for the show of their restraint,
but in the end, Malow dislikes his crewmates.

THE ARRIVAL

1) This is a very important section of the novel. What does Marlow say about belief and the loss of belief?
Marlow argues that he has been robbed of belief as he personally believes that belief to be given and taken.
2) Consider the voices: the voice of Kurtz, of the first narrator, of the Intended. What is the “voice” of civilization?
What is its value? What do these voices mean?
The voices give the reader a deeper and more diverse understanding of others' reactions and experiences
throughout imperial times. The varying backgrounds contribute to different interpretations of the story and the
“voice” of civilization by having multiple voices and standpoints.
3) Marlow says that all of Europe is responsible for Kurtz. In what way is this true?
Marlow means that the culture in Europe is the reason why Kurtz negatively views the natives. The racist beliefs
and views were likely exposed to Kurtz at a young age, which then developed as Kurtz grew older.
4) Kurtz is a man who is eloquent with words; he is also the man who declares, “Exterminate all the brutes!” Explain
this irony of his character.
Kurtz is an ironic character because being charismatic in the way he speaks does not translate into having
eloquent and intelligent thoughts.
5) What is the nature of Kurtz’s report to the International Society for the Suppression of Savage Customs? What is
the contrast between the main body of the report and its postscript?
The report to the International Society for the Suppression of Savage Customs is giving a warning about the
savages, which leads Kurtz to declare the need to exterminate them all. The main body of the report is formal and
contrasts its postscript that is concise and blunt.
6) What do readers learn about Kurtz’s methods of securing ivory and of his relationship with the natives? Cite
passages which indicate these things.
Kurtz would raid various villages with the help of a strong tribe he befriended and secure ivory.
7) What is the bond Marlow feels for Kurtz? How is the theme of restraint important here?
Marlow feels a bond for Kurtz through their hard work ethic and determination. Restraint is important as they
don’t let others influence their own beliefs and discourage them.
8) What does Marlow admire about Kurtz? Disapprove of in Kurtz?
Marlow admires Kurtz and his work ethic that mirrors his own, yet he disapproves of Kurtz and his own personal
beliefs.
9) What do Marlow and Kurtz have in common? How are they different?
 Marlow and Kurtz are both hard workers who are driven by their beliefs, but Marlow’s beliefs are more
straightforward.
10) When Marlow looks at the Inner Station through his binoculars, what exactly does he see?
Marlow sees a small house atop a hill through his binoculars while looking at the Inner Station. The house is
surrounded by tall grass and thick forests and has been weathered down.
11) What is Kurtz’s place like? What has been going on?
Kurtz’s place is described by Marlow as prison-like as it shares the same gloom and depression as a prison.
Outside his house, heads are placed on stakes. Kurtz had brought his tribe there to hunt ivory.
12) Who is the “harlequin”? Describe him. What does he symbolize? What is his function in the novel?
The harlequin serves as a comedic relief character who is dressed in yellow, blue and red. He symbolizes a
positive outlook on imperialism and he serves to warn Marlow of the danger ahead.
13) What advice does he give Marlow?
The harlequin tells Marlow to stand by the whistle of the boat as the natives are more likely to be most frightened
by the sound.
14) What is the book that Marlow gives him?
Marlow receives a book from the harlequin titled “Habits of Seamanship”.
15) What is the young Russian sailor’s attitude toward Kurtz? What information does he give Marlow about Kurtz?
The young Russian sailor’s attitude toward Kurtz is positive as he credits Kurtz with opening his mind. He tells
Marlow that the reason the natives attacked was because of Kurtz leaving.
16) In what way do you think the harlequin’s mind has been enlarged?
The harlequin’s mind has been enlarged after being exposed to different conditions that others live in daily. He
claims that his mind has been enlarged after meeting Kurtz and quickly becoming one of his admirers.
17) How much credibility do you attach to the remarks of the Russian harlequin? Explain.
With the harlequin being a comedic relief character, his remarks could lack credibility.
18) How does Part II change the portrait readers see of Kurtz?
The readers see a side of Kurtz that has not been seen as Marlow is able to see Kurtz through the eyes of one of
his admirers, the harlequin. The adventurous nature of Kurtz is something Marlow strives to match.
19) To what does the title Heart of Darkness refer?
The title Heart of Darkness refers to Marlow’s journey that reveals imperialism in a different light. The violent
and cruel nature of the Europeans travelling to the Congo with no true understanding of the tribes and people who
live there can be described as traveling into the “Heart of Darkness”.
20) Discuss the symbolic significance of Marlow’s journey up the river.
As Marlow travels up the river, he gets closer to the heart of the Congo and farther away from the civilization he
is accustomed to.
21) Discuss the imagery of light and dark in one of the scenes.
The use of imagery with the contrasting light and dark symbols represent the different motives and perspectives of
imperialism. The Europeans see themselves as the light, who enter a place of darkness that has yet to be touched
by civilization. The darkness represents the savages.
22) What protections does Marlow list from the temptations of savagery in the absence of civilization?
Marlow relies heavily on work to resist temptation of savagery when in the absence of civilization for such time.
23) Discuss the theme of restraint in the novel.
The theme of restraint is incorporated into the novel with the Pilgrims failing to restrain themselves from violence
towards the savages, whereas the cannibals show restraint in not eating the others. Marlow recognizes the restraint
the savages have when faced with the notion of starvation, but cannot comprehend how the Pilgrims struggle to
show restraint to violence.
24) How would you describe Conrad’s style of writing? Do you find it effective? (Why/why not)
Conrad’s style of writing is mostly left to the interpretation of the reader. The incorporation of different
viewpoints throughout the novel allow the reader to not be subjected to one specific line of reasoning from one
individual. I find Conrad’s writing to be ineffective as the perspective often shifts without a clear indicator to the
reader and as a result, his work can be confusing.

THE JOURNEY: THE FIRST STAGE COAST OF AFRICA:

1) As Marlow journeys down the coast of Africa on the French steamer, he is struck by the appearance of the
coastline, the brightness of the sun, the ridiculous shooting into the jungle of the warship, and the mixture of death
 and trade. What feelings about Africa, about Europeans, and about the job he is about to assume are aroused by
these first encounters of his journey?
Marlow witnesses the destruction, carelessness, and greed the Europeans show towards the country of Africa and
the people that reside there. The dark jungle of the coastline draws Marlow in and acts as an enigma for him,
while the bright sun contrasts the dark jungle. The mixture of death and trade that Marlow witnesses cause him to
see the inner greed of the Europeans, where death is less important than trade and money.
2) What scenes of the journey reveal to Marlow the heartless exploitation of the natives and the futility of the
colonial system?
As Marlow travels on the river, he witnesses the different scenes of neglect, abuse, and torture that is impacting
the natives. He sees thin and starved individuals in heavy chains being forced to work in dire conditions. Here,
Marlow is able to see the harsh exploitation of the natives and question the colonial system.
3) Look at a map of Africa. What river does Marlow journey upward?
Marlow journeys up the Congo river in the heart of Africa.
THE OUTER STATION:

1) Describe what Marlow sees at the First Station. What is signified by the abandoned machinery, the chaotic
appearance, and the suffering of the slaves?
Marlow witnesses the enslaved natives shackled by heavy chains and the European holding a gun. The abandoned
machinery and chaotic appearance indicates to Marlow that the company is struggling to survive and that their
intended goal of civilizing the natives has not been achieved as the natives are now enslaved.
2) What is the “devil of rapacious and pitiless folly”?
The “devil of rapacious and pitiless folly” refers to Imperialism. Imperialists are compared to the devil as the
greed and entitlement can never be satisfied and is therefore a “pitiless folly”.
3) In the grove of death Marlow sees a slave wearing a bit of “white worsted” about his neck. How does this detail
connect to the theme of European invasion of Africa?
The white fabric around the slaves neck contrasts his black neck and Marlow observes how the fabric seemed out
of place as it is coming from a different country, one that is far different from the Congo. The detail shows the
out-of-place nature that connects to Europeans invading Africa.
4) Why does Marlow regard “work” as important?
Marlow regards his work as important as he uses it to keep sane in the absence of civilization.
5) Describe the Chief Accountant. Why does Marlow notice him? What does he do?
The Chief Accountant’s clean and well put together look catches Marlow’s eye. The distinguishing features are
described by Marlow as a miracle to witness in such uncivilized conditions.
6) What does the accountant represent? Do you admire or dislike him? Why?
The accountant can represent the intended goal of the Company, whereas Imperialism begins to be organized and
calculated, but after uncivilized conditions and conflict with natives, the goal becomes disheveled and lost.
Marlow admired and respected him for his determination to stay true to life in civilized conditions and had stayed
in the Congo for 3 years.
7) What is Marlow’s attitude toward the accountant and the work going on at the Outer Station?
Marlow’s attitude toward the accountant remains positive and the work at the Outer Station is respected by
Marlow.
8) Why do you think Conrad included the accountant in the novel?
Conrad’s incorporation of the put-together accountant serves as a starting point for where conditions are for those
in developed areas and to also contrast the differences between the two cultures.
9) Find the reference to Kurtz. What kind of person do you imagine him to be?
Kurtz is described to be a hard worker who earns the admiration of the Chief Accountant for his ivory hauls. Due
to this description, Kurtz can be imagined to be a determined, hard-working person.
10) Marlow emphasizes the motif of “paths” as he describes the land journey to the Central Station. What is the
symbolic significance? What does Marlow say about death?
Marlow emphasizes the motif of paths to show dread towards completing the long and treacherous journey.
Marlow also comments on death and the overwhelming auroma of it throughout the jungle and the different
stations.
THE CENTRAL STATION:
1) Marlow finds his steamer at the bottom of the river and a manager who seems to take it for granted that nothing
will be done efficiently. How does Marlow react? How does he adjust? What does he mean when he says there are
“no external checks”
After finding his steamer at the bottom of the river, Marlow is upset but goes to work the next day. He is forced to
repair the boat as well. By saying there are “no external checks”, Marlow is referring to the manager who is free
to run his station however he wants without authority to oversee him
2) What are his reactions to the explanation given to him? How is the situation concerning the rivets typical of the
colonial system as he sees it?
Marlow sees an issue with the colonial system through his need for rivets, whereas the messenger of the company
would go out and come back with an abundance of items, yet none were ever what Marlow needed.
3) Who is “the flabby devil” who is “running the show”?
The “flabby devil” running the show is the company and the greedy white men from Europe who are solely
motivated by money to go into the Congo for valuable items such as ivory.
4) Why is Marlow so frustrated by what he sees in Africa and by the Europeans he meets?
Marlow is frustrated by the people he sees due to the fact that they all partake in immoral activities, yet take no
responsibility or accountability for their actions.
5) What sort of character is the manager; how is he described?
The manager is introduced as an insignificant character who only acquired his job through his health and
presence. Marlow notes the lack of organization present in his office and concludes that he is contributing to the
folly condition of the station.
6) What does he learn about Kurtz?
Marlow learns about Kurtz and his illness that is putting his station in danger.
7) What does the overheard conversation between the manager and the brickmaker contribute to his knowledge of
Kurtz?
The conversation between the manager and the brickmaker reveals to Marlow the brickmaker's jealousy towards
Kurtz.
8) What is Marlow’s attitude toward the manager and toward the work of the Central Station?
Marlow notices the Central Station’s run down condition and distrusts the manager as corrupt.
9) Look at the description of the oil painting by Kurtz of the blindfolded woman. Remember this image; it will have
important connections at other points in the novel. What is the meaning of Kurtz’s painting?
The painting represents Kurtz’s intentions to civilize the natives but the blindfold serves the purpose of showing
the misdirection the Europeans took from their intended goal.
10) What impression does the painting give of Kurtz the painter?
The painting shows Kurtz as an independent leader.
11) What impression does the painting give of the woman?
The painting shows the woman as blindfolded and unaware of Kurtz’s true intentions or blind to the
consequences.
12) What do you make of the strange episode of the fire and the hole in the bottom of the watering pail? What does
this event contribute to Marlow’s and the reader’s sense of European life in Africa?
The event serves as a metaphor for the European expansion and how their mission of civilizing the natives and
obtaining new land is similar to attempting to fill up a pail of water when the bucket has a hole.
13) What details do you learn about the character of the brickmaker? What is a “papier-mâche Mephistopheles?
The brickmaker is described by Marlow to have pointy features, similar to the devil. A papier-mache
Mephistopheles is a demon from “Faust” who collects souls.
14) Why does he call the brickmaker a papier-mâché Mephistopheles?
Marlow senses the brickmaker’s bad intentions and therefore refers to him as similar to the devil, where he has no
soul and evil intent.
15) What is Marlow’s lie? Why does he tell it? Is it justified? Explain.
Marlow lies about his influence in Europe to protect Kurtz, a man who he has yet to meet. Marlow’s lie is not
justified as he is protecting the idea of Kurtz he has crafted in his mind from other people’s stories of him.
16) As he assumes his task, Marlow says that work is a way of keeping hold on “the redeeming facts of life.” What do
you think he means? Why is this attitude toward work important for him in Africa?
Marlow works to avoid the uselessness of the people surrounding him at the station, wanting to have a purpose
and job. His attitude towards work comes from his own fears of descending into madness like other Europeans
had in such desolate conditions.
 17) In the midst of the narrative, Marlow stops and speaks to his listeners: “Do you see him? Do you see the story?
Do you see anything? It seems to me I am trying to tell you a dream...” What effect is created? What is the
significance of the repetition of the verb “to see”? Marlow seems to call special attention to the particular episode
that is occurring, suggesting that it is important and especially difficult to understand. What do you think he wants
readers to see?
Conrad pulls the reader into the story by having Marlow raise questions that the reader must reflect on. The effect
breaks the fourth wall and questions the reader if they can see imperialism through the eye of Marlow.
18) Why are rivets important to Marlow? Again, he talks about work: “I don’t like work...but I like what is in the
work—the chance to find yourself. Your own reality...” As the novel progresses, think about whether or not this is
true for the European invaders of Africa, for Marlow, for Kurtz.
The rivets are important to Marlow because they are what he needs to continue his repair of his boat. As the novel
progresses, some use work to find themselves, yet none contemplate their own character through their work as
Marlow does.
19) Who is the dark figure in front of the manager’s hut? Give evidence for your answer.
The dark figure could be identified as representative of many different things, from the internal guilt Marlow
feels, to the ghost of the past Africa without the European settlers.
20) What does Marlow say about the Eldorado Exploring Expedition? What is the true nature of the expedition?
Marlow argues that the Eldorado Expedition had a darker nature than what others believe as they set out to
burglarize and make money instead of exploring.
21) To what themes is the Eldorado Exploring Expedition connected?
The Eldorado Exploring Expedition connects to the overall theme of greed that led to imperialism and the irony
within it.
22) What are the different stages of Marlow’s journey and what does each stage represent?
Marlow’s journey begins with the intent to make money and have a job, which sends him to the Congo to work
for the company. Once Marlow sets out on his journey into the jungle, he realizes the conditions of Imperialism
and the false narrative that he had been hearing about the expansion. He sees the impact on the natives as they
were shackled and enslaved, which begins his internal quest to figure out his own intentions and beliefs. Each
stage represents his growth and progress as he goes through different experiences.
THE INNER STATION

1) Why does this section change take place in the middle of an action? Is that what happens with Section II? Are
these seemingly abrupt breaks appropriate in any way? What do you think Marlow intends to convey by this
three-part division of his story?
The section change signifies time passing, which is different from what happened with section 2. The abrupt
breaks are due to Marlow’s story-telling in the present as he tries to recall the details of what happened years prior.
The three-part division of his story adds depth and contributes to the story-telling that the novel revolves around.
2) What new interpretation of the harlequin is suggested by this opening section?
The harlequin comments on Kurtz and how he brought his tribe down to the river to plot their next ivory raid.
3) What are the knobs Marlow describes?
The knobs are the people’s heads on sticks that were placed outside of Kurtz’s station.
4) Look at Marlow’s response to Kurtz. What other motifs in the novel can you connect to Marlow’s emphasis on his
lack of restraint; the fact of his eloquence when he is “hollow at the core”?
Marlow’s reaction to Kurtz highlights his bewilderment with Kurtz’s own lack of restraint. Restraint is also tied to
the cannibals and pilgrims as their restraint was challenged in their own ways.
5) What does the manager say about Kurtz’s methods?
The manager argues that Kurtz’s methods had ruined the district and lost profit.
6) What details make up the scene in which Kurtz is carried on a stretcher to the ship?
The natives attempted to keep Kurtz from leaving, as guns were carried near Kurtz’s stretcher.
7) Describe the native woman.
She was described to be adorned with gifts and trinkets and Marlow commented on her intimidating appearance.
8) Why do you think Kurtz tries to escape from the steamer back to his station?
Kurtz attempts to escape the steamer and return to his station to continue his life with the tribe who follows him.
9) How does Marlow persuade Kurtz to return to the ship?
Marlow persuades Kurtz to return to the ship by assuring him that his life in Europe will lead to new opportunities
just as the Congo had did for him during his time spent in the jungle.
10) What does Kurtz talk about on the voyage down the river?
 Kurtz tells Marlow more about his life and career on their voyage down the river. He mentions his fiance, past
articles he wrote, and his life at the station prior to leaving.
11) What different references does Marlow make to Kurtz’s voice and why?
Marlow references Kurtz’s voice to be one of his highlighting characteristics, as his voice carried a wisdom that
Marlow comments on.
12) Examine Marlow’s feelings about Kurtz and the manager. What changes in attitude is Marlow experiencing? How
does he feel about each of these men by the time they begin the journey back down the river and as that journey
progresses?
As the story progresses, Marlow’s feelings towards Kurtz shift by hearing his life stories and admiring his
application into life. Marlow has seen the flaws within the manager and Kurtz, but is able to see their strengths
that he himself lacks.
13) How is Kurtz’s life related to the flow of the river and the heart of darkness of the jungle?
Kurtz followed the flow throughout his life and embraced life with the savages, although he never reflected to see
the flaws of imperialism and the dark nature of the European’s presence in the Congo.
14) What is the significance of Kurtz’s last words? What do Kurtz’s last words mean to him? To Marlow? To you?
Kurtz’s last words serve as a realization point for Kurtz in recognizing his part in the horrific style of European
expansion. Kurtz could also be witnessing his own descent into hell, where he will face the consequences of his
cruel treatment of the natives.
15) What is “the horror”? Why does Marlow call his cry a moral victory?
The horror is referring to the effect of Imperialism on the natives and the chains, starvation, and abuse they
received. Marlow recognizes a moral victory as Kurtz, faced with death, is finally able to have a different
perspective on his actions.
16) What motifs that have been developed throughout the novel are recapitulated here?
The motif of reflection and self-realization is recapitulated, along with the general theme of hell as Kurtz faces
death.
17) What is Marlow’s view of Kurtz at the end of this section?
Marlow views Kurtz as a remarkable man for his strong belief and realization of their actions. He admires that as
Kurtz was dying, he had another belief and realization that Marlow doubts he too would have.
18) What has Marlow learned from his journey? What darkness does he see in himself?
Marlow has seen that everyone has a darkness within themselves and that Kurtz was able to conceal it up until his
very last words. Marlow sees his own lack of realization that Kurtz has.
BRUSSELS

1) After Marlow’s return to Brussels, what three people ask him about Kurtz? What is the purpose of each?
A septiculed man who worked for the company visited Marlow and insisted on obtaining Kurtz’s documents that
he had given to Marlow. Kurtz’s cousin, an organist, visited Marlow for information on his dear cousin’s death.
The third and final man who visited was a journalist who worked with Kurtz.
2) Describe the Intended and her environment.
The Intended was still adorned in black clothing to show her mourning, even after a year since Kurtz’s death. She
is described to be surrounded by darkness that reflects the feelings of mourning.
3) Contrast the Intended with the native woman on the docks. Are these negative or positive portrayals of women?
The Intended and the native woman on the docks were both depicted in a way that tied them to Kurtz. Although
their appearances are described, Marlow gives no further insight into their own thoughts and feelings as he did
with Kurtz.
4) Recall the painting by Kurtz and the description of the native woman mourning his departure. What similarities do
you see in colors and gestures? What differences are there?
The painting by Kurtz and the description of the native woman are both similar in the dark, sullen background and
stately expression. The difference includes the possibility of light, which was shown in the painting, where the
native woman shows no sign of hope.
5) How do the Intended and the native woman symbolize the oppositions of the novel?
The native woman represents the savagery of Africa and contrasts the proper and polite Intended.
6) What interpretation of the Intended’s role in the novel is suggested by her appearance, the appearance of her
surroundings, and by her statements?
The Intended’s role in the novel is to show the naiveness of those in Europe who are kept in the dark about the
harsh reality of expansion into Africa. Furthermore, the Intended can also represent the majority of people who do
not recognize a darkness within themselves and others.
 7) Examine carefully each statement that is made by Marlow and by the Intended in their interview. What ironies do
you see?
The interaction between Marlow and the Intended is laced with irony as the two have different perceptions of the
Kurtz they knew. The Intended insists on Kurtz’s good character and believes that Marlow sees the same in him
that she does. However, Marlow’s perception of Kurtz greatly differs from the Intended as he has seen the flaws of
his character and the darkness that exists within him.
8) What lie does Marlow tell? Do you agree with his decision?
Marlow tells the Intended that Kurtz’s last words were her name. I agree with his decision because the Intended
seems to be a character who could not handle such darkness and she is left with a positive final memory of her
lover.
9) Why does Marlow lie to the Intended when he has said how much he hates lying? Why not tell her the truth, or
tell her that Kurtz had no last words, rather than affirming her sentimental and mundane ideas?
Marlow lies to the Intended to satisfy her warped, light-hearted perception of Kurtz.
10) How is Marlow’s decision to lie related to his earlier comments about women?
Marlow’s decision to lie comes from his own understanding of women and their want for emotion and love, so he
seeks to satisfy the Intended’s own perception.
11) Consider the possibility that in a certain way, Marlow does not lie to the Intended. What is the connection between
“her name” and “the horror”?
Her name can represent the horror in the way she and many others are blind to such issues of humanity and the
consequences of greed.
12) How has Marlow been changed by his journey to Africa?
Marlow’s journey to Africa introduced him to the darkness of the world, where money is worth more than lives
and restraint is tested by internal urges. He learned the importance of work and also connected with Kurtz and
admired his remarkable self.
13) Would the Director of Companies, or the Lawyer, or the Accountant, be affected by a term of service at the Inner
Station the way Kurtz was? Explain.
Any of Marlow’s listeners could be affected similarly to how Kurtz was affected, but it would require the same
level of inner reflection that many lack.
14) How does the last paragraph relate to the beginning of the story?
The last paragraph returns to an older Marlow finishing his tale. The same dark, heavy, and ominous tone remains
and “black banks” of clouds and an “overcast sky” contribute to this feeling.
15) Why is Marlow again described as a Buddha?
Marlow again is described as Buddha as he remains at peace with his experiences and the story he had told that
reflects his immense wisdom and insight. He is in a contemplative state
16) What is meant by the comment, “We have lost the first of the ebb...?” Where does the novel end?
The “loss of the first ebb” refers to the tide going out, which means the men aboard the Nellie can no longer sail
that day due to the conditions. The novel ends on the same somber and ominous note as the story had begun with.

EACH member of this group should choose ONE of the following prompts and respond.

1. The significance of a title is not always easy to discover. For some novels, the full significance of a title becomes
apparent to the reader only gradually. What is the significance of Conrad’s title Heart of Darkness, and how
does that significance reveal itself? Consider structure, style, literary devices, and/or figurative language.

2. Many literary works use contrasting places to represent opposed forces or ideas that are central to the thematic
meaning of the work. Heart of Darkness compares and contrasts two such places. Write an essay analyzing one
or more set of contrasting places; discuss how the places are both similar and different, what each place
represents, and how their contrast and comparison contributes to one or more meanings (themes) of the work.

3. Meaning, in literature, sometimes surfaces through scenes in which a death or deaths take place. Demonstrate
and explain how specific death scenes in Heart of Darkness help to illuminate one or more of the novel’s key
themes. Dive deeply into the imagery, literary devices, and/or figurative language that give depth to these scenes.

4. In many works of literature, a physical journey (the literal movement from one place to another) plays a central
role. In Heart of Darkness, a physical journey is an important element. Discuss how Marlow’s journey adds to
the thematic meaning of the work as a whole. You may wish to consider some or all of the following questions:
 In what way is this journey more than just a physical one? How does the journey connect to archetype? Does the
journey situate this story as a classic adventure tale?

5. Some novels and plays seem to advocate changes in social or political attitudes. Using Conrad’s Heart of
Darkness, discuss references made within the text to the particular attitudes that the author apparently
wishes to modify. First, briefly present and explain these attitudes as they appear within the text. Next, discuss
and demonstrate the ways in which they are challenged by the text. Throughout the essay, consider the language
and literary techniques the author uses to influence readers’ views.

6. Does Heart of Darkness reflect prevailing late-1800s attitudes about women, or not? Are there ways in which
the novel questions or rejects those attitudes? Develop an argument that considers each of the three important
female figures in the text: Marlow’s aunt, Kurtz’s Intended, and the native woman who lived with Kurtz. Note:
You must include outside research in order to present Victorian attitudes and beliefs about women

7. How does darkness serve as a symbol in Heart of Darkness? Discuss the various ways Conrad uses and
presents the word and the concept. Explore “darkness’s” various meanings and consider, as well, its juxtaposition
with light.