Monday, March 12, 2012

Examine Marlow

Taken from Google Images

At the beginning of the novella, a doctor examines Marlow before he departs for the Congo.  Upon this examination, it is evident that the man has seen many men before they have set out on various adventures, but he states one thing: they don't ever come back to see him.  As a class, we discussed reasons these men may not have been back for a check up, but Conrad implies that Marlow feels as though he is somewhat of a psychological experiment as he observes the absurdity of imperialism that surrounds him in this foreign place.

Imagine if you were that doctor and you happened to get a chance to examine Marlow again.  What do you observe?  How has his character changed since leaving Europe?  Is he suffering from any ailments?  How has he changed psychologically?  Bottom line: in what ways has Marlow changed since the beginning of the novella?

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