Imagery and symbols

Marlow is a character seeking adventure. His situation is ironic in the fact that he is critical of imperialism, yet he embarks on an African journey in which the Company is the epitome of corrupt domination. Black and white/dark and light imagery aids in the characterization of the Company and its influence in Africa. Although the Company asserts that it exists in order to bring civilization and light to Africa, a place of darkness, it only works in its own self-interest. A lust for power and wealth drives the Company that theoretically rapes the country and its natives of all their worth. The location of the Company's headquarters is described as a "whited sepulchre" (73) and exists as a symbol of the Company's false pretenses. As Marlow's story matures, Marlow matures as a character as well in that he becomes more perceptive of the moral decay that defines the Company.

Introduction

Even though I have not yet gotten into the real meat of the book, Conrad's description of the Thames River has already attached me to the story. The water becomes a loaded symbol of memories, power, pride, and serenity. It is a magical medium through which extraordinary events have occurred and will continue occurring- a place where history is made. Conrad uses contrasts of light and dark in his description of the setting as well as in the title itself: Heart of Darkness. The scenery becomes a dynamic character in that it has transformed from a primitive state. The frame story begins to take shape as Marlow begins relating his memories to the other men on board who are only named by their occupations. The unnamed narrator frames this narrative by describing the circumstances under which Marlow's story is told.