Quiz : How Much Do You Know Heart Of Darkness?

Kurtz's last words, "The horror! The horror!" suggest that he is expressing his deep and profound realization of the darkness and evil that he has encountered in the heart of humanity during his time in the Congo. It reflects his despair and the overwhelming impact that his experiences have had on him. The repetition of the phrase emphasizes the intensity of his emotions and the haunting nature of his revelations.

Marlow tells Kurtz's intended that her name was the last thing he said before dying. This lie is significant because it allows Kurtz to maintain a positive image in the eyes of his loved ones, despite the darkness and corruption that consumed him in his final moments. Marlow chooses to protect Kurtz's legacy and spare his intended from the harsh truth, providing her with a sense of comfort and closure. This lie also reflects Marlow's understanding of the power of storytelling and the ability to shape narratives to preserve the memory of others.

The "rounded knobs" surrounding the inner station are shrunken heads of Kurtz's opponents. This suggests that Kurtz is a violent and ruthless individual who takes pleasure in killing his enemies and displaying their heads as trophies. The presence of these shrunken heads adds to the atmosphere of darkness and brutality in Kurtz's domain.

Marlow sees himself as different from Kurtz because he believes that Kurtz gave in to his own evil desires, while Marlow did not. This suggests that Marlow has a stronger moral compass and is able to resist the temptations that Kurtz succumbed to. Marlow views himself as being morally superior to Kurtz in this aspect.

Kurtz's managerial style can be described as authoritarian and ruthless. He uses fear as a means of control, resorting to killing or threatening others when necessary. This approach instills a sense of terror and obedience among his subordinates. Additionally, Kurtz's style involves making deals with local chiefs, indicating his ability to manipulate and form alliances for his own benefit. Furthermore, he engages in trading with the locals for ivory, suggesting his exploitative nature. Lastly, Kurtz takes a hands-on approach by personally hunting down elephants, showcasing his dominance and power.

In Marlow's meeting with Kurtz, the irony lies in the fact that despite being physically weak and helpless on a stretcher, Kurtz still manages to exert a commanding influence over the native audience. This irony highlights the power and charisma that Kurtz possesses, which allows him to maintain control and dominance even in his weakened state.

Marlow affirms that he was Kurtz's friend in a way because he saw the truth of what Kurtz was wrestling with and empathized. By understanding the inner struggles and conflicts that Kurtz was experiencing, Marlow was able to connect with him on a deeper level. This empathy and understanding formed a bond between them, establishing a friendship of sorts.

The correct answer is that the Russian is captivated by Kurtz's personality. This means that the Russian is deeply fascinated and enchanted by Kurtz's character and behavior. Kurtz's charisma and charm have a strong influence over the Russian, causing him to be captivated and possibly even influenced by Kurtz's actions and beliefs.

Marlow fights to keep Kurtz's effects (letters) from the company because he believes that they will destroy Kurtz's reputation. This suggests that the letters contain information or evidence that could tarnish Kurtz's image or reveal the true nature of his actions in the Congo. Marlow, who has developed a deep admiration for Kurtz, wants to protect his legacy and prevent the company from using the letters to manipulate or defame him. By keeping the letters, Marlow hopes to preserve Kurtz's reputation and the memory of their time together.

Conrad uses a frame tale technique to set up Kurtz's story. This means that the main narrative is framed by another story, where a narrator recounts the events. In Conrad's novella "Heart of Darkness," the main story is narrated by Marlow, who tells the story of his journey into the Congo to a group of men aboard a ship. This framing device allows Conrad to provide different perspectives and layers to the narrative, as well as create a sense of distance and reflection on the events being described.

Marlow feels admiration towards the natives because of their uniqueness. This suggests that he appreciates their distinct culture and way of life. It implies that Marlow sees value in their differences and does not harbor any negative feelings towards them.

The darkness represents Kurtz's inability to overcome the darkness within himself. Marlow describes Kurtz's soul as impenetrable darkness, suggesting that Kurtz is consumed by his own inner demons and is unable to find redemption or escape from his own moral corruption. This darkness symbolizes the depths of Kurtz's depravity and the impossibility of his redemption, highlighting the destructive power of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition and greed.

The phrase "kicked himself loose of the earth" suggests that Kurtz has detached himself from the earthly values and moral standards that typically bind individuals. This implies that he no longer possesses any morals, indicating a significant shift in his character and behavior.