Heart of Darkness (version 4)

Heart of Darkness is a novella by Joseph Conrad, published in 1899, based on his experiences in the Belgian Congo. The story follows Charles Marlow, a seaman who recounts his journey up the Congo River to retrieve a rogue ivory trader. The work is notable for its exploration of colonialism and the darkness within humanity, presenting a complex view of civilization and savagery. While it contains elements of racial stereotyping, it also suggests that the capacity for savagery exists in all humans, regardless of race or origin.