Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad | Part 2: Attack On The Steamer

Summary

In 'Heart of Darkness,' Marlow navigates the treacherous Congo, encountering fog and fear of attack. He witnesses the cannibalistic tendencies of the crew and the violent effects of Kurtz's descent into darkness. Marlow's disappointment at not meeting Kurtz reflects the tragic consequences of unchecked imperialist ambitions, as Kurtz's transformation into a brutal figure is seen as a product of European influence rather than an anomaly.

Takeaways

• 🚤 The narrative continues from Marlow's journey, highlighting the perilous journey towards the inner station where the manager hesitates to proceed due to the fog.
• 🌫 The heavy fog and a loud, desolate cry create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, suggesting a possible attack on the steamboat.
• 🔒 Marlow is prepared for action, with the steamboat ready to move ahead if necessary, showing the tension and readiness amidst the hostile environment.
• 🤔 The crew's hunger is revealed, as they have only had rotting hippo meat and a few pieces of brass wire to trade for food, indicating their dire situation.
• 🏹 The steamer is attacked by arrows, and Marlow describes the chaotic scene of a human swarm, highlighting the violent confrontation with the native people.
• 🗡 The response to the attack is swift and deadly, with the pilgrims firing rifles and a Houseman being struck by spears, showing the brutal reality of colonial encounters.
• 😔 Marlow's disappointment is palpable as he realizes he may never get to speak with Mr. Kurtz, revealing his deep interest in Kurtz's character and story.
• 🔮 A flash-forward reveals Marlow's reflections on Kurtz's influence and the darkness that claimed him, suggesting a deeper, symbolic struggle within Kurtz.
• 📜 Kurtz's report for the International Society is mentioned, which argues for the power of the white man over the 'savages,' but ends with a chilling call to 'exterminate the brutes,' reflecting a tragic irony.
• 🗣️ The portrayal of Africans in the novella is limited, with most speaking in gibberish or English only twice, raising questions about the authenticity and stereotypes in the narrative.
• 👤 The Intendant is the only woman who speaks in the novella, and Marlow suggests that Kurtz's downfall is due to the absence of civilized influences, tying his actions to a broader critique of European imperialism.

Q & A

What is the setting of the second part of 'Heart of Darkness'?

The second part of 'Heart of Darkness' is set about eight miles from Marlow's destination at the inner station, where the manager wants to stop until morning due to heavy fog.

What is the initial reaction of the characters to the fog and the desolate cry?

The initial reaction of the characters is unease and fear, as they contemplate the possibility of an attack, and the fog and the loud desolate cry seem to cut the silence as if the mist itself had screamed.

Why does Marlow Hall secure the steamboat in the chain?

Marlow Hall secures the steamboat in the chain so that it can move ahead if necessary, as a precaution against potential danger or attack.

What is the condition of the Congolese crew members' food supply?

The Congolese crew members have only had some rotting hippo meat to eat that they brought along with them and a few pieces of brass wire to trade for food at non-existent trading posts.

How does the fog affect the events that unfold?

The fog lifts to reveal an attack on the steamer by arrows, creating a sense of urgency and danger that was not apparent before the fog cleared.

What is the nature of the attack on the steamer?

The steamer is attacked by arrows from naked individuals with glaring eyes, a swarm of human limbs and movements, which Marlow describes as a chaotic and terrifying scene.

How do the pilgrims respond to the attack?

The pilgrims respond to the attack with a fusillade of rifle fire, indicating a violent and immediate reaction to the perceived threat.

What happens to the Houseman during the attack?

The Houseman is struck by Spears and dies at Marlow's feet, which prompts Marlow to reflect on the fate of Mr. Kurtz.

Why does Marlow express disappointment about not being able to talk with Mr. Kurtz?

Marlow expresses disappointment because he had hoped to gain insight or understanding from Mr. Kurtz, who by then is presumed dead.

What does Marlow recall about Mr. Kurtz's influence and possessions?

Marlow recalls that everything belonged to Kurtz, including his intended, ivory, station, and river, indicating Kurtz's extensive control and influence in the region.

What is the significance of Mr. Kurtz's report for the International Society for the Suppression of Savage Customs?

The report signifies Kurtz's initial belief in the potential for whites to exert a positive influence on the 'savages,' but it ends with the chilling directive to 'exterminate the brutes,' reflecting a shift in his perspective.

How does the script portray the African natives and women in 'Heart of Darkness'?

The African natives are often portrayed as grunting, screaming, or speaking gibberish, and Africans speak in English only twice in the novella. The only woman who speaks, the Intendant, is used to highlight Kurtz's downfall and the absence of civilized influence.

What does Marlow suggest about Kurtz's transformation?

Marlow suggests that Kurtz's transformation into a figure of violence and possessiveness is not an aberration but an inevitable result of a Eurocentric, imperialist mentality.