Symbolism of Darkness in Heart of Darkness

TLDRThe use of darkness as a symbol creates an ethical context in Heart of Darkness, representing the unknown, difference, and blindness. Kurtz's depravity is symbolized by the decapitated heads of native men, while ivory symbolizes the greed and corruption of the European colonizers. The presence of a Harlequin emphasizes the absurdity of the situation.

Key insights

🌑Darkness symbolizes the unknown, difference, and blindness in Heart of Darkness.

💀The decapitated heads of native men symbolize Kurtz's depravity.

💰Ivory symbolizes the greed and corruption of the European colonizers.

🎭The presence of a Harlequin emphasizes the absurdity of the situation.

🃏The Harlequin also represents the wise fool, highlighting the Russian's naivety.

Q&A

What does darkness symbolize in Heart of Darkness?

Darkness symbolizes the unknown, difference, and blindness in the novel.

What do the decapitated heads of native men symbolize?

The decapitated heads of native men symbolize Kurtz's depravity.

What does the ivory symbolize in Heart of Darkness?

Ivory symbolizes the greed and corruption of the European colonizers.

What does the Harlequin represent in the story?

The Harlequin represents the absurdity of the situation and the idea of the wise fool.

What does the Harlequin reveal about the Russian's character?

The presence of a Harlequin highlights the Russian's naivety.

Timestamped Summary

00:09Darkness operates throughout Heart of Darkness, creating an ethical context for the work.

00:22Marlow implies that England was once a dark place, representing the primitive nature of the land and its people.

01:01The most important metaphoric darkness is revealed in Kurtz's heart and symbolized by the decapitated heads of native men.

01:24Ivory symbolizes the greed and color of the Europeans, becoming a consuming passion for them.

02:11The presence of a Harlequin emphasizes the absurdity of the situation and suggests the idea of the wise fool.