Duality In Joseph Conrad's Heart Of Darkness

After reading the novel, Heart of Darkness by author, Joseph Conrad, one may see how may see how Marlow, the main protagonist, continues to develop throughout the text. Analyzing the piece of literature, one sees how Marlow embodies archetypal qualities such as the Warrior, the Lover, the Magician, and the King to flourish throughout the novel. Starting with the warrior, Marlow follows a mission. From a simple adventure to the Congo, becomes a hunt for Kurtz, a man with a lot of power. Marlow feels as though both men share a similar passion for the wilderness. Channeling his warrior archetype, he provides protection to Kurtz as the Russian trader tells him to take Kurtz quickly as Marlow then replies, “‘Mr. Kurtz’s reputation is safe with me’” (Conrad, 145). Not only has Marlow provided Kurtz protection once, but several times. “I was to have the care of his memory” (Conrad, 128). Marlow extends his security to himself as he lies, tricks, and becomes vague to various people to protect himself, as he fears possible dangers and trusts no one. Including the aspects of being less involved in relationships, Marlow states, “‘let us hope that the man who can talk

Making it the goal to meet and become similar to Kurtz, Marlow embodies this as his desire, as well as to being accepted by him- “‘I think Mr. Kurtz is a remarkable man,’ I said with emphasis” (Conrad, 144), “I was seduced into something like admiration-like envy” (Conrad, 134). Learning of Mr. Kurtz’s dark heart, he still stays faithful to him, “‘ I had turned to the wilderness really, not to Mr. Kurtz,.. I was ready to admit, was good as buried’” (Conrad, 144). Connecting the Nurturer to the Lover archetype, in the end of the novel, meeting Kurtz’s Intended, Marlow consoles and tricks her through lies to spare her from the grief and agony, slowly moving to Marlow as a