The Stranger (first body)

Meursault's opening lines of the novel instantly expose his psychological indifference to the world around him.  Instead of grieving, he is emotionally removed, cold, and apathetic in regards to the news of his mother's death. Once he receives the telegram, his fundamental concern is finding out which day his mother passed away: "Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don’t know. I got a telegram from the home: “Mother deceased. Funeral tomorrow. Faithfully yours.” That doesn’t mean anything. Maybe it was yesterday," (1). He does not express any anguish or sorrow, which makes him a  difficult character to classify. Moreover, he is neither happy nor unhappy; thus, it is challenging to cast him as being immoral or normal: he is simply amoral.  Meursault utterly declares the fact in a straightforward and ordinary manner. Already his opening lines connote one of the many themes in the novel: the meaninglessness of human existence. In addition, although Meursault dismisses the interpersonal, emotional, and collective matters of situations, he shifts his attention to the physical and practical details revolving around his mother's death. He finds particular interest in the heat, sky, and nature: "the sky was already filled with light. The sun was beginning to bear down on the earth and it was getting hotter by the minute...I was hot in my dark clothes...it was inhuman and oppressive," (24). Before his mother's funeral, he savors and appreciates the lovely climate and scenery. Likewise, Meursault does not feel pain nor sadness throughout the entire funeral process; however, he does find the heat unbearable, causing him more grief than the idea of burying his own mother into the ground. 

The Stranger (intro paragraph)

Albert Camus' novel, The Stranger, not only explores the meaninglessness of human life, but also the intense infatuation with the external world versus the internal world. The detached protagonist, Meursault, immediately reveals himself as a lost, emotionless individual in the beginning of the novel. Throughout The Stranger, Meursault constantly diverts his attention to his inner core, his intimate, yet solely physical relationship with Marie, his external life, and the extraneous components of his surroundings. While Meursault introduces the novel with an aloof reaction to his mother's death, his depravation in the prison cell at the beginning of part 2 causes him to focus on the internal as opposed to the external, unusually disclosing emotional information about Marie and shockingly, his mother. 

The Stranger (quick notes)

fascinated with the external normal life heat & sky

depravation makes him focus on the internal because there is no external anymore... unusually happy in prison

The Stranger (outline, thesis, best ideas)

Outline:

Intro paragraph: introduce the essay by speaking about part I first -- general statements about him being detached. Perhaps begin speaking about his unusual indifference with his mother's passing? Then, towards the thesis, become more specific about part 2 and how he reveals more emotion.

Thesis: irony about how once he is in a confined environment, he opens up!

First body paragraph: explore Meursault in part 1 to eventually make the connection... quote about his mom passing away and another one describing Marie.

Second body paragraph: explore Meursault in part 2 in the prison... one quote about how he feels in the prison itself... he starts to have these epiphanies about his life and then another quote about Marie (a perfect way to compare his detached self in part 1!)

Conclusion:

The Stranger (essay question)

I'm thinking of writing my essay on the sudden shift in emotion during the beginning of part 2 in the novel. Meursault finally allows himself to become a bit vulnerable and reveals his sensitive side to the audience. For example, he speaks of Marie in a different way and even mentions his mother! This was extremely surprising, considering Meursault has not mentioned his mother since the funeral in the beginning of the novel.

The Stranger (pg 65-79)

Meursault begins to comprehend that not only does he not care what happens, but that the world does not care either. For example, when Meursault told Raymond not to shoot the Arab and to give him the gun, that is when Meursault reached an epiphany: “it was then that I realized you could either shoot or not shoot.” His epiphany  connotes that no difference exists between the two alternatives. In addition, the nature motif reoccurs during this chapter. In the beginning of the chapter, Meursault portrays nature's benefits: the sun calming his headache and the sea providing him and Marie to swim and enjoy each other's company. However, as the chapter progresses, Meursault conveys nature in a negative light. Moreover, the heat oppressing Meursault is an example of nature's negative on him. 

The Stranger (pg 45-64)

Meursault asserts that although details may change, one’s life remains essentially constant: "I said that people never change their lives, that in any case one life was as good as another and that I wasn’t dissatisfied with mine here at all." This declaration implies that each person’s life is essentially equal to everyone else’s. It becomes clear that Meursault concentrates largely on the moment in which he finds himself, with little reference to past occurrences or future consequences. This outlook perhaps explains his ambivalent attitude toward marriage with Marie; thus, the emotional and sentimental aspects of marriage never enter into his mind.

The Stranger (translator's note)

Meursault addresses a specific conversation he has with Marie in a passage from Part One, Chapter 4. With characteristic emotional indifference and detachment, Meursault responds to Marie’s question with complete honesty: "a minute later she asked me if I loved her. I told her it didn’t mean anything but that I didn’t think so." Always blunt, he never alters what he says to be considerate or to conform to societal expectations. However, Meursault’s honesty reflects his ignorance. His blunt words connote that he does not fully understand or care to acknowledge the emotional stakes in Marie’s question. In addition, in Meursault’s assertion that whether he loves Marie or not love “doesn’t mean anything,” the reader begins to understand one of Meursault's central idea: that the human life is meaningless.

The Stranger (pg 33-44)

Meursault does not attempt to assign a rational order to the events around him, and he is largely indifferent to human activity; he does not see his mother’s death as part of a larger structure of human existence. Meursault is Camus’s example of someone who does not need a rational world view to function and can function in an universe that is indifferent to human struggles. In addition, Meursault places such importance on the physical aspects of existence. He barely addresses Marie's personality and character; however, he focuses on describing their physical interactions. Lastly, in chapter 3, Meursault's neighbor, Raymond, serves as a foul for Meursault. Raymond convinces Meursault to assist him in his scheme to take further revenge on his mistress, to punish her for her infidelity. After manipulation, Meursault adheres to Raymond's request; this crystallizes the distinction between Meursault and Raymond. Raymond arranges to have sex with his mistress and then spit in her face. He uses the physical act of making love to his advantage, as a tool to humiliate and punish his mistress. However, Meursault views his sexual affair with Marie as fundamental pleasure. 

The Stranger (pg 12-33)

"Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don’t know." This is the first sentence in the novel, The Stranger, and we already discover the emotional indifference the novel's narrator and protagonist possesses. Meursault does not reveal any agony or dejection from the news of the telegram of his mother's death. Instead, he simply announces the news in an ordinary and frank manner. Moreover, he does not even care to find out the exact date of his mother's passing. His ambivalence and carelessness reveals a lot about his character. The reader can also perceive his aloof attitude as that he finds human existence meaningless. 

Style Matches Audience and Purpose

The text of the Bible's creation story, Genesis, is written in a simplistic form. Genesis contains clear, choppy statements illustrating a vivd image of all of G-d's commands. It's as if Genesis was written so every being could fully understand G-d's work and His creation of animals. "And G-d said, "Let"" begins every paragraph to establish G-d's supreme power. In addition, "And it was so" confirms G-d's authority in the world. Furthermore, not only does Genesis reveal the evolution of G-d's creation of the world, but it also affirms the reason behind G-d's will: "Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years (14-15). It is extremely straightforward and an easy read. The clear and picturesque diction makes the text accessible to children and adults.

Perks of Being a Wallflower is also written in a concise, straightforward format. The main character, Charlie, writes in his journal almost every day to another teenager around his age; thus, this kind of writing is also accessible to children and adults: "After the dentist's office, my mom drive me to the cemetery where a lot of her relatives are buried. My dad does not like to go to the cemetery because it gives him the creeps," (26). Using colloquial  language like "the creeps" connotes that this is a novel for a wide range of audience members. Genesis conveys a more informative tone, whereas Perks of Being a Wallflower affirms a serious, vulnerable, and eventually an adventurous tone. 

Darwin v Genesis

The text of the Bible's creation story is far more simplistic than the scientific writing of Charles Darwin. Genesis contains clear, choppy statements illustrating a vivd image of all of G-d's commands. It's as if Genesis was written so every being could fully understand G-d's work and His creation of animals. "And G-d said, "Let"" begins every paragraph to establish G-d's supreme power. In addition, "And it was so" confirms G-d's authority in the world. Furthermore, not only does Genesis reveal the evolution of G-d's creation of the world, but it also affirms the reason behind G-d's will: "Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years (14-15). It is extremely straightforward and an easy read. On the other hand, Darwin's scientific writing is more complex and includes plenty of scientific vocabulary that seems to reject religious. However, Darwin capitalizes the 'c' in Creator out of respect to the Church and religion. It is evident in his writing that he becomes defensive with some of the counter arguments being made against his theories. Darwin refers to natural selection as an example to support his claim that evolution is the foundation of the creation of animals: "The theory of natural selection, even if we looked no further than this, seems to me to be in itself probable. I have already recapitulated, as fairly as I could, the opposed difficulties and objections: now let us turn to the special facts and arguments in favour of the theory." Moreover, Darwin refers to modified descendants and their diversified habits and structures  which constructed the evolution of humanity.

In-class quiz

Warm sunshine fills the family's car on their way to the countryside, which connotes a significant contrast from the restrictive image of the Samsa's small apartment. In addition, the family concludes that now with Gregor deceased and removed from their lives forever, they now have better and aspiring things to look forward to. This feeling of relief affirms that the family obtains a sense of hope for the future. The last scene of the novel is an image of Grete stretching. Kafka symbolizes this act as Grete's own metamorphosis: emerging after a long period of confinement, as if from a cocoon. "It struck Mr. and Mrs. Samsa... how their daughter... had blossomed recently... into a beautiful and voluptuous young woman. And it was something of a confirmation of their new dreams and good intentions when at the end of their journey their daughter got up first and stretched her young body" (Kafka 53). Metamorphosis depicts a transformation during which an immature form of a species undergoes a physical or emotional transfiguration to become an adult. While Grete begins to uphold such unfamiliar responsibilities, such as watching over Gregor and finding a job to financially support her family, she gradually matures. Towards the end of the final scene, her parents realize is it time to find her a husband. This closing scene connotes that she has fully blossomed into an adult, emotionally and physically. 

The Metamorphosis: day five (45-58)

After Gregor's death, the family travels out to the countryside to get away from the stress and chaos that lies within their apartnment. Warm sunshine fills their car, which connotes a significant contrast from the restrictive image of the Samsa's small apartment. In addition, the family discovers that they have more money than they initially believed, and that all of their worrying for most of the novel was for nothing! Selfishly, the family implies that it was, of course, Gregor who kept them from a nicer home and living condition. Thus, the family concludes that now with Gregor deceased and removed from their lives forever, they now have better and aspiring things to look forward to. This feeling of relief affirms that the family obtains a sense of hope for the future. The last scene of the novel is an image of Grete stretching. I believe Kafka symbolizes this act as Grete's own metamorphosis: emerging after a long period of confinement, as if from a cocoon.

My Conrad Essay...

For this specific essay, I should pay attention to MLA format. I really want to continue splitting up the work next year in college. It is really helpful when Dr. Forman assigns a specific paragraph due a specific day so the class isn't stressed out the night before the essay is due! I have been using the colon in my titles this entire year, and this is another technique I want to continue in college. Throughout the writing process for this essay, my favorite part was fully investing myself in Frerud's theories on man and man's behavior. Philosophy is something that ive always been attracted to, so it was really awesome to explore that in class!

The Metamorphosis: day four (35-45)

During this part of the novel, the family begins to perceive Gregor's humanity in a different light. For example, Grete leaves milk for Gregor, remembering that milk was his favorite drink as a human. Thus, Grete assumes that although Gregor has now transformed into a bug, a little part of him remains the same. However, Grete soon realizes that Gregor does not like normal food anymore. He crawls on the walls, lounges underneath the sofa, and eats like an insect. In addition, Gregor's father does not regard Gregor as a human anymore. After his father comes home, he misunderstands his wife's screaming for Gregor attacking his wife. His father's immediate impulse is to find Gregor and beat him like a pest. However, Gregor suffers from an internal conflict. There are moments when he feels human. For example, Gregor feels relieved that his family did not spend all of the money he saved for them, but feels ashamed that he cannot financially provide for them anymore. He still feels a part of the family and yearns for them to need him again. Moreover, he covers a sentimental photograph of a woman with fur so his sister and mother won't remove it with the rest of the furniture. Gregor's humanity is fully exposed when he hovers over this prized possession. 

The Metamorphosis: day three (25-35)

Gregor's parents showed a great deal of appreciation when Gregor first started earning his salary to support the family, and Gregor felt proud to do so. However, as soon as his parents adapted to their new lifestyle of Gregor supporting the family, the parents' gratitude gradually diminished and he no longer felt the same feeling of joy in providing for them. Now, as a bug, he spends much of his time under the sofa, listening to his family converse their financial situation. Fortunately, Gregor discovers that his parents have saved some of the money he earned for them. However, he knows that that money will only last for so much time. He is ashamed when he hears his family speak of their economic issues and feels hopeless because of his father's lack of physical stability and his mother's asthma. He realizes it is very unlikely that his parents will find employment. Although Gregor and his parents have drifted apart from one another, he manages to stay close to his sister, Grete. Sadly, he had hoped and planned to pay for her to attend a music school to study the violin. 

The Metamorphosis: day two (15-25)

Money is a clear motif in the novel; it plays a major role in the Samsa family. After Gregor discovers his abrupt and traumatic transformation, he immediately worries about losing his job, one that he is not too fond of. The only reason Gregor continues to work for his boss is so he can pay off his parents' debt. Gregor is the only person in the family who works, which is bizarre and frustrating for Gregor since their debts truly affect the well-being of his family. Unfortunately, Gregor is left with the burden of being utterly responsible for paying these debts. In addition, the office manager proclaims that the chief suspects Gregor of stealing from the company, while Gregor's mother entreats the office manager, telling him what a loyal and hardworking employee Gregor is. 

Socratic Discussion HOD

I really enjoyed observing Blake, Robert, Matthew, Steven, and Tyler discuss Heart of Darkness and the essence of civilization. Although it was difficult not to participate, it was interesting to hear what they all had to say. Blake and Matthew were definitely the group leaders, but like Dr. Forman said in class, it's quality over quantity. So, although Tyler did not speak often, his ideas were well thought out and substantial. I think the majority of the group agreed that one is born good and it is civilization that deteriorates our natural good. Moreover, the group acknowledged that one must have some sort of rules or else one would live in a world with the utmost chaos. Tyler brought up a good point relating it to our lives today: imagine displacing Taft students to attend Buckley. Since we attend a private, college-prep school, we strictly follow the rules and The Buckley Commitment. Since Taft is a public school and has an extraordinary amount of students, it is more difficult to enforce rules. Another concept the group brought to my attention was whether it is unintentional or malicious, everyone judges. Judging can also be used as a mechanism to fit in! Thus, although Freud claims that one should not restrain one's instinct, it should depend on the circumstance. For example, if one has the instinct to kill, does that make it ok? Clearly, no. I'm so glad we got to explore Socratic method again this semester!

The Metamorphosis: day one (5-15)

Once Gregor first discovers that he has transformed into a giant insect, he does not appear to be troubled or concerned in any way. He regards this transformation as any normal disturbance to his sleep. Moreover, he continues to his proclaim his largely ordinary concerns: losing his job, sleeping comfortably, his family's economic situation. This maintains the novel's ridiculous tone, at least so far in the story. 

HOD: conclusion

Joseph Conrad's message from Heart of Darkness and Sigmund Freud's ideology is extraordinarily relevant to one's life. Through Conrad's lesson and Freud's wisdom, one can truly better him or herself as an individual. These teachings help one understand oneself in the real world; thus, if one is brave enough, one can embrace their id. Every being simultaneously obtains the wide range for both the authentic good and the unadulterated evil. Conrad affirms that one's dreams are truly revealing; for they disclose what the individual truly seeks. In addition, one's own criticisms similarly reveal his or her own, for it is what one chooses to project to others that reflect their own weaknesses and even flaws. Thus, experiences define the identity of an individual, proving that one is most in touch with him or herself through their own dreams. 

HOD: second body

More to come... very rough draft... 

Conrad intentionally symbolizes the wilderness of the jungle as a definite illusion for Marlow to truly find himself. Moreover, Conrad portrays Kurtz' soul, throughout Marlow's journey in Africa, as a reoccurring motif because it is the only way for Marlow to obtain his deepest self-awareness. Freud claims that symbols will reappear only if they are significant and that the unconscious mind converts, or disguises, impalpable, shameless mental contents: "I turned to the wilderness really… And for a moment it seemed to me as if I also was burred in a vast grave full on unspeakable secrets. I felt an intolerable weight oppressing my breast, the smell of the damp earth, the unseen presence of victorious corruption, the darkness of an impenetrable night" (Conrad 55). Although confronting Kurtz's spirit initially serves as Marlow's punishment, this realization leads him to apply it to himself; Marlow recognizes that Kurtz's malice indeed mirrors his own potential malice. In addition, Heart of Darkness is Marlow's own interpretation of his dreams; it is an image of reality. The mind is a strict representation of the real world, and Freud believes that there is nothing one does that is accidental or occurs by chance. To some degree, behavior, intuition, and contemplation is motivated by your unconscious, and through dreams, one is given the chance to capture a glimpse into one's id.

HOD essay: title & first body

"Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise" Freud teaches to embrace our id rather than to reject it. But the deniable question remains: are we brave enough?

A dream: the pure and profound essence of an alluring fantasy. Cinderella's "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" perfectly reflects Marlow's obsession with Kurtz and the symbolism that reoccurs throughout his unconscious mind. Kurtz is the most explicit representation of Marlow's Id. However, the audience realizes only at the end of the text that his blazing attraction to Kurtz results from Marlow indirectly peeking into his own soul. Marlow exemplifies his devotion to Kurtz: "it was ordered I should never betray him--it was written I should be loyal to the nightmare of my choice" (267). Although Marlow reveals his Id as a nightmare of his choosing, he does not entirely expose his extreme desires. His wishes are never directly disclosed because that would be too confronting, and the truth is too frightening to bear. In addition to learning the monstrosity of inner evil, Marlow understands the loneliness and silence each individual possesses because no person will ever suffer, endure, or enjoy the same exact way another being does. Marlow articulates this emotion en route to Kurtz: "No, it is impossible, it is impossible to convey the life-sensation of any epoch of one’s existence – that which makes truth, its meaning – its subtle and penetrating essence.  It is impossible.  We live as we dream – alone…” (107). Conrad's simile compares life to a dream; thus, while dreaming, one often embarks into a world of folly that can be felt by the dreamer, alone. Therefore, both life and dreams connote solitude. Furthermore, isolation concludes many of the characters' lives towards the end of the novel. However, according to Freudism, perhaps the characters were always alone; Marlow did not only begin to feel detached from the world once Kurtz died. One can never fully relate to another being; therefore, one will everlastingly live a disconnected, deserted life.

HOD essay: intro

Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness is solely a description of Marlow's quest to encounter and learn from Kurtz. Marlow's intense infatuation with Kurtz progresses as Kurtz resolves many of Marlow's internal obstacles. However, it is impossible for Marlow to explicitly illustrate his experience on his journey, because his memories are merely images and feelings from within. Moreover, Marlow refrains from fully exposing himself and his emotions because vulnerability if terrifying. Philosopher Sigmund Freud explains that one's deepest wishes, within one's dreams, cannot be entirely revealed because the wishes of one's id connote unethical, violent, and sexual desires. In addition, critic Frederick R. Karl affirms that the world is comprised of absurdity and irrationality which in essence provokes the unconscious mind and elusive dreams. Throughout the novel, Marlow thoroughly absorbs all that he can from Kurtz, because although Kurtz's qualities disturb and frighten him, these qualities are hidden within himself and his illusions. 

HOD essay: topic

I am thinking of exploring how Conrad's novel, HOD, relates to Freud's theory about dreams... My focus will be on how Marlow cannot directly express the wishes of his id because according to Freudism, that is too confronting, vulnerable, and terrifying and how everyone in the novel ends up living on their own. I will also be analyzing specific quotes from Murfin and Karl as additional information to support my idea. 

Murfin

I don't necessarily agree with Freud's theories that are directly or indirectly concerned with the nature of the unconscious mind, suggesting that the powers motivating men and women are mainly and normally unconscious. However, I do believe and understand that that we have repressed wishes and fears. Murfin claims that characters represent the author's alter ego, persona, or repression. I believe this is not always the case... but it can be sometimes. In addition, Murfin brings up a good point that Freud wrote about the unconscious mind and the id/supergo, whereas Conrad wrote about sexual fascinations and evils. Moreover, Murfin also affirms that novels reflect authors' dreams... I find this is a little odd. 

Heart of Darkness Day 9 (the end)

Marlow goes to see Kurtz’s Intended at the end of the novel. He is uncertain whether his version of Kurtz has any value either as a reflection of reality or as a philosophical form. Marlow declares that he knew Kurtz “‘as well as it is possible for one man to know another.’” The reader easily sees that Marlow’s response is merely an accomplishment, not an affirmation. The reader now understands that Marlow barely knows himself. In addition, the reader can make a connection back to the beginning of the novel: Marlow depicts his experiences to his friends because it creates an implied comparison between the travelers' lives as well as his own. The men, traveling onboard the Nellie, benefit economically from imperialism; however, Marlow has benefited mainly from experience.

Heart of Darkness Day 8

Marlow frowns upon Fate since he cannot fathom it or its purpose. However, he does learn from it. Through Fate, he learns of his deepest self but is also left with "a crop of unextinguishable regrets."  Throughout the novel, Fate does not seem to have a happy ending for anyone. Once Marlow approaches Kurtz's mistress', the Intended's, house, the past becomes intensely and distinctly alive for him. Kurtz’s Intended seems as if she is not affected by the damages nor the comforts of passing time. She stretches the time of mourning into eternity.

"...he seemed to have died only yesterday – nay, this very minute. I saw her and him in the same instant of time – his death and her sorrow – I saw her sorrow in the very moment of his death. Do you understand? I saw them together – I heard them together." (3.53)

Heart of Darkness Day 7

Kurtz is ruled by evil; two evils fight for Kurtz’s soul and both fill his mind with greedy thoughts. Kurtz is so claimed by evil that, metaphorically, light cannot touch him anymore. Marlow claims that being alone in the wilderness has driven Kurtz’s soul mad. However, Kurtz cannot win for he is blind to what has trapped him. In his dying days, Kurtz’s words become more and more incomprehensible. Kurtz’s madness is causing him to go blind; he cannot see the sunlight. He is completely immersed in the darkness and evil of his soul.

Heart of Darkness Day 6

One of Freud's philosophies is that man exhibits aggression and violence to successfully oppress and control. Once the steam ship was attacked and several men died, some discovered ivory in the decay of the dead animals surrounding them. They immediately alter their focus to the alluring findings of ivory and ignore the suffering and wounded fighters. In addition, Marlow’s response to the helmsman’s death reflects the general atmosphere of inconsistency, greed, and absurdity. As opposed to mourning his right-hand man, Marlow changes his socks and shoes.

Heart of Darkness Day 5

Kurtz is portrayed as a symbol to all of the characters in the novel. For example, the natives praise him as a powerful supreme being. In addition, to the Russian trader, he represents knowledge about everything from wealth to romance. Marlow admires him as the symbol of all nightmares, mysteries, and darkness. However, he is regarded as a fool to the manager and the pilgrims because they punish him for failing to advocate the educated ideals of colonialism, making themselves appear less guilty. 

Heart of Darkness Day 4

“In a few days the Eldorado Expedition went into the patient wilderness, that closed upon it as the sea closes over a diver. Long afterwards the news came that all the donkeys were dead. I know nothing as to the fate of the less valuable animals. They, no doubt, like the rest of us, found what they deserved. I did not inquire.” 

Marlow watches the Eldorado Exploring Expedition fix themselves up and then retreat from the Central Station. The mysterious report is the only news he receives regarding their destiny. This ironic quote is characteristic of Marlow; it connotes that he has solely come to see white men as "less valuable animals." Moreover, Marlow has already come to doubt the establishment of the Expedition's fate; thus, he does not seek additional information about the journey. "Patient wilderness" connotes that the Expedition's future is insignificant even with larger calamities and meaningless when considered in the essence of nature's timespan. 

Analyzing Freud's philosophy behind human nature

Unlike Jean-Jacques Rousseau's major philosophical statement that man is born inherently good, but is society that corrupts him, Sigmund Freud believes the entire opposite. He declares that man is born inherently bad and that society improves or betters him. He focuses on the domineering, dark side of human nature. So far, Heart of Darkness discusses the theme of darkness in the chapter when Marlow encounters the slaves in Africa. Moreover, Marlow embodies Freud's philosophy when he claims to be above the laborers in the novel. In addition, Freud affirms that man's choices are governed by uncontrollable, motivating forces in the mental realm. Freud asserts that man have no control over these mental processes and that sexual energy, libido, is the single most important force in human nature; thus, they energize the mind in all of its functions. His work and theories have helped us shape our views of childhood, personality, memory, sexuality, and therapy.

Heart of Darkness Day 3

After Marlow disembarks at the Company's station, he encounters a group of black prisoners walking along in chains. Marlow cynically remarks over how the European arrival has led this men to malnutrition, exhaustion, and dehydration. In addition, he criticizes the structures surrounding the camp and continues to regard the other characters with skepticism and apprehension. Furthermore, Marlow comes across a small wood to find a group of dying native laborers. He offers one of the starving workers a biscuit. Moreover, Marlow finds himself fascinated with the white European yarn tied around the laborers' neck and is intrigued to discover its meaning. 

Heart of Darkness Day 2

The two female gatekeepers knitting black clothing in the company station in Africa connote the gateway within the abyss of darkness. Once Marlow accepts embarking on his quest, he encounters the general manager who appears to be an average man; however, Marlow suspects an odd uneasiness about his character. Moreover, the general manager claims that Kurtz is rumored to be ill and cannot meet with Marlow. He also declares that he took the boat out in a hurry to relieve the inner stations. 

Heart of Darkness (Opening)

HW due Jan 8 (or Jan 9 for C per)

Blog due on first pages of Conrad:

Question: How does the opening set a tone for how to read the novel?

Read 5 pages

       Our unnamed narrator opens the novel with the evening he spend abroad the Nellie. Only through him do we meet Marlow. In addition, Marlow himself tells the framed story so most of the narration is told from his point of view. Moreover, this introduction sets a tone for how to read the novel. So far, the novel has a negative outlook on life. Marlow constantly refers to angry, morbid, frightful, and dark images, based on Conrad's own negative reaction to his journey up the Congo River.