Mr. Kurtz
A highly successful ivory trader and station chief in the Congo, who becomes a symbol of moral corruption and the dark side of colonialism.
Core Belief
"Initially, Kurtz seems to believe in the civilizing mission of colonialism, but his experiences in the Congo lead him to embrace a philosophy of unrestrained power and self-interest. He ultimately believes that he is above the constraints of morality and that his will should be imposed on others."
Worldview
Kurtz's worldview evolves from a belief in progress and enlightenment to a cynical and nihilistic perspective. He comes to see the world as a place of savage instincts and unchecked desires, where the only meaningful value is the assertion of one's own will.
Personality
Kurtz is charismatic, eloquent, and initially driven by idealistic goals, but he succumbs to the lure of power and becomes a tyrannical figure. He is both admired and feared, representing the potential for both greatness and depravity within human nature. He is ultimately consumed by the wilderness and his own inner darkness.
In Their Own Words
"“Exterminate all the brutes!”"
"“My Intended, my ivory, my station, my river, my—”"
"“The horror! The horror!”"
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