Essay Questions

What is the significance of Tarzan finding a hunting knife?

The knife that Tarzan finds is symbolic of a couple of things. First, it is a vital connection to his human heritage. His ability to use the knife is what separates him from the apes, as the novel was written before the discovery of tool-using apes. Second, it is an item that levels the playing field for him as he lacks the brute strength, instincts, and natural weaponry such as fangs and claws that animals are born with. The knife, coupled with Tarzan’s intelligence, strength formed from hard life with the apes, and knowledge of the jungle, is what allows him to eventually master the beasts and the men living near him.

What does Tarzan symbolize?

The titular Tarzan is a complex, multifaceted symbol. Some have argued that he is metaphorical for colonialism and white imperialism, but this may not be completely true as he seeks to merely be accepted by the apes as one of them rather than to rule over them. Tarzan may alternatively be seen as a symbol of civility and civilization, bringing as sense of nobility and humanity to an otherwise savage environment.

How does Tarzan embody the ideals espoused during the time of its writing?

It is interesting to note that despite external appearances and having had no contact with any humans until adulthood, Tarzan is still in many ways the embodiment of the Victorian gentleman who remains chivalrous even in the midst of savage environs. However there is also an imperialistic, nearly racist undercurrent in assuming his role as a heroic character. Tarzan is lord not just over the animals of the jungle but he is also the lord over the human--presumably African--inhabitants of the peripheral areas.