Heart Of Darkness
Study Guide
Structure
Frame Narrative
Raises central issues developed in Marlow's narrative through the frame
Positions the reader to sympathise with Marlow's viewpoints
Exterior and Interior Characterisation
Exterior: provided by the frame narrator
Interior: Inner thoughts and Motivation (1st person)
Links Marlow's emotional development and inner journey through the 'darkness' with his external appearance
Readers trace his ideological development as it corresponds with a manipulation of their own attitudes and values.
Exterior Characterisation of Kurtz
Information must be gleaned from the narrations of other characters
The almost excessive level of separation between reader and character allows readers the distance to reflect objectively on Kurtz' actions.
Readers are overtly manipulated through a series of different Kurtz exteriors in order to generate a level of understanding of the character.
The character of Kurtz, as the personification of colonisation, is barely exposed to readers, to guard against resistant readings of the text
Ironic Implications of the Frame
The frame narrator is led to perceive him as a Buddha, yet the only enlightenment he has found is in darkness
Establishes a realistic backdrop and moral benchmark for Marlow's tale
The Glory of England
Saving the savages
Restraint and Efficiency
Manipulates the reader's response to characters, situations, conflicts and issues
The different levels of narration add to and contradict each other
Through these continual contrasts, readers are manipulated and forced to question their own attitudes towards colonisation.
Frame Narrator vs. Marlow
The frame narrator and Marlow come from the dominant European discourse; however there is a sense of antithesis in their different attitudes towards colonisation and imperialism.
The frame narrator details the glory of England
Marlow reminds us that it 'has been one of the dark places of the earth.'
The opposition serves to heighten the contrast and creates an immediate conflict...
Review
A very useful study guide :)
3 out of 3 people found this comment useful.