Study of the Title: "Heart of Darkness"
The title Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad carries significant symbolic meaning that reflects the novel's central themes and messages. Here are the main aspects of its significance: 1. Symbol of Moral Corruption: The "heart of darkness" serves as a metaphor for the moral decay found within humanity. As Marlow journeys into the African Congo, he observes the greed, cruelty, and exploitation resulting from European colonialism. This darkness represents not only the literal obscurity of the jungle but also the inner darkness of individuals who lose their moral compass in the pursuit of power and wealth, exemplified by the character Kurtz. 2. The Congo as the ‘Heart of Darkness’: Geographically, the Congo symbolizes an unknown and remote wilderness. For European colonizers, it is a land filled with danger and mystery. Marlow's journey into the Congo symbolizes a descent into a realm where civilization’s façade crumbles, revealing humanity's primal inst