Analyze Conrad’s use of symbols in “Heart of Darkness.”

Answer

Analyze Conrad’s use of symbols in “Heart of Darkness.” [NU: 2019, 21]

Joseph Conrad’s (1857-1924) “Heart of Darkness” (1899) tells of Marlow’s journey to the Congo. It is also a journey into the human soul. Conrad uses many symbols to give the story deep meaning. The river, the jungle, ivory, darkness, and Kurtz himself—all stand for something bigger than what they are. These symbols make the novel powerful and timeless.

The “White Sepulchre” – Mask of Civilization: Before leaving for Africa, Marlow goes to Brussels. He calls it the “White Sepulchre.” Outside, it is clean and bright. Inside, it hides greed and death. This is a symbol of European imperialism. Europe claims it brings light. In truth, it is hypocrisy. Like a tomb, it looks holy outside, but it holds decay inside. Through this symbol, Conrad shows the false mask of civilization.

The Congo River – The Path to Darkness: The Congo River is the road Marlow follows. It is not straight but full of curves. Marlow calls it, 

“An immense snake uncoiled.” 

The river is both real and symbolic. It carries him into Africa, but also into the inner heart of man. Every turn hides mystery. Every mile takes him closer to Kurtz. The river is life, but also danger. It is the path to the unknown, to darkness.

Kurtz’s Painting – Blind Civilization: In the Brickmaker’s room, Marlow sees 

“A woman, draped and blindfolded, carrying a lighted torch.”

This picture is painted by Kurtz. It is a symbol of Europe. They claim to bring light to Africa. But they are blind. Their torch does not guide. It burns. Imperialism is blind destruction.

The Outer Station – Death and Irony: Marlow sees the French warship firing into the forest. He says, 

“Incomprehensible, firing into a continent.”

This symbol shows the waste of the empire. There is no enemy. The shots mean nothing. It is madness. At the same station,