Metaphysical dimension in Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness"

Literature Review , 2014 , 4 Pages , Grade: University

English Language and Literature Studies - Literature

This short text examines the metaphysical dimension in Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness". Conrad has created Heart of Darkness in such a way that the literary devices of symbolism, imagery, paradox and personification act as a catalyst for bringing out the metaphysical meaning behind the literal text. The physical journey of Marlowe to Congo, the atrocities he witnesses there and the insight he gains – all of it is fleshed out and given emblematic form on a metaphysical dimension.

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• The Metaphysical Dimension in Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness
• The Nature of Truth
• The Fascination with the Abominable
• The Relationship Between Expectation and Reality

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This essay explores the metaphysical dimension in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. It examines how Conrad uses literary devices such as symbolism, imagery, paradox, and personification to create a deeper meaning beyond the literal text.

• The nature of truth and reality
• The power of the natural world and its influence on human behavior
• The dangers of colonialism and the exploitation of people and resources
• The relationship between the physical and metaphysical realms
• The impact of the African landscape on the characters' psyches

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

• The first chapter explores the journey of Marlow to Congo and the atrocities he witnesses there. It establishes the dualistic nature of the novel, operating on both a physical and metaphysical level.
• The second chapter delves into the White Men's efforts to colonize the African landscape and the struggle to control the "heart of darkness." It raises the question of who is in control: the White Man or the African landscape.
• The third chapter examines the nature of truth and reality, focusing on Marlowe's pursuit of a definitive truth in Congo. It suggests that there is no absolute truth, but rather a constant search for "further truth."
• The fourth chapter explores the relationship between the Europeans and the Natives, highlighting their opposing attitudes and the blurring of racial and cultural lines. It argues that the fascination with the "abominable" creates a "remote kinship" between them.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The essay focuses on the metaphysical dimension in Heart of Darkness, exploring key themes such as the nature of truth, the power of the natural world, the dangers of colonialism, and the relationship between the physical and metaphysical realms. Important concepts include symbolism, imagery, paradox, personification, and the African landscape as a force that reveals the "Truth about Man."

• Course: Modern Novel
• Grade: University
• Author: Sofia Arslan (Author)
• Publication Year: 2014
• Pages: 4
• Catalog Number: V344965
• ISBN (eBook): 9783668346697
• ISBN (Book): 9783668346703
• Language: English
• Tags: Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness, Metafiction, metaphysical