Heart of Darkness

The novella explores the journey of Charles Marlow as he travels up the Congo River, revealing the stark contrasts between London and Africa. Through Marlow's obsession with the ivory trader Kurtz, Conrad delves into themes of imperialism, civilization versus savagery, and the moral ambiguities of colonialism. The narrative, framed by Marlow's storytelling to friends on the Thames, highlights the darkness that exists in both the heart of Africa and the heart of civilization.