What is the central idea in Heart of Darkness?
podunc Teacher College – Sophomore eNotes Editor The most important idea or theme that Conrad explores in his novella is that of moral ambiguity and moral corruption. The imperialism of the Congo, the treatment of the natives, and Kurtz’s horrific behavior all point to what can happen when one is in a place where there are few consequences for one’s actions. The setting is crucial in juxtaposing “darkness” and “light” as two of the major symbols throughout the work. Some critics take issue with Conrad’s equation of darkness=evil and light=good; they believe that racism is inherent in this kind of thinking. But Conrad actually mixes up these symbols and confuses them–darkness does not always symbolize corruption, and light does not always symbolize good. It is this kind of symbolic ambiguity that mirrors the moral ambiguity that Marlow is faced with during his journey. Sources: http://www.enotes.com/darkness/ Rate answer: $(‘#aScore-31527’).
