Women in Heart of Darkness

[Che Litto]

I have a mock AS exam approaching VERY soon and could do with a few more pointers on the role of women in the novella. I have a few points such as the speculation that the women can be both seen as weak and fragilic or they can be interpreted as the people that are truly in power of the actions that men take. The woman that I am finding hardest to pin down is the 'Jungle Queen' that makes an appearance in chapter three, just before Kurtz's death. If anybody could let me know of some interesting comparisons, particularly between her and 'the intended', I would greatly appreciate it...

[shaysta89]

When I did my A levels, my teacher gave us an alternative view of women. Maybe they are really and truly out of it. Look up Marlow's quote on how women are out of it and how they should stay out of it. Like the Intended at the end of the novel; Marlow preserved her illusion about Kurtz by lying to her because he knew the truth would destroy her. She was fragile and innocent (as you mentioned).

As for the Jungle queen, you can say she was the embodiment of the wilderness. She was savage and dark and she had that powerful presence on the bank when Marlow and gang were rescuing Kurtz. I can offer to type up my A Level notes regarding Women and their role in Heart of Darkness for you if you want.

[AtomicCafe1]

woah! two first time posters in a row! Neat-o!

[shaysta89]

woah! two first time posters in a row! Neat-o!

Lol. Amusing isn't it?