‘Tarzan of the Apes’ is a novel written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, first published in 1912. It is the first book in the series of Tarzan novels and is one of Burroughs’ most famous works.
Plot Summary
The novel tells the story of Tarzan, a boy orphaned in the African jungle after his parents are marooned and killed by apes. Tarzan is adopted and raised by a tribe of apes, who teach him their ways and he grows up to become a skilled hunter and warrior.
As Tarzan matures, he encounters other human beings, including Jane Porter, an American woman who becomes the love interest of Tarzan. The novel explores Tarzan’s dual identity as both a human and an ape, his struggle to fit into human society when he encounters it, and his adventures in the wild.
Themes
Identity and Belonging: Tarzan’s journey raises questions about identity and where one truly belongs. He grapples with his dual heritage as both human and ape, and struggles to find his place in the world.
Adventure and Exploration: The novel is filled with adventure, as Tarzan navigates the dangers of the jungle, encounters wild animals, and interacts with various human characters.
Romance: The relationship between Tarzan and Jane Porter is central to the story, exploring themes of love, attraction, and cultural differences.
Nature versus Nurture: The novel examines the influence of upbringing and environment on a person’s character and abilities, as Tarzan’s upbringing among apes shapes his skills and instincts.
Legacy
‘Tarzan of the Apes’ was highly successful upon its release and spawned numerous sequels, adaptations, and spin-offs in various media, including films, comic strips, and television series. Tarzan has become an iconic literary character and a symbol of adventure and the wild jungle. Edgar Rice Burroughs’ creation has left a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing portrayals of jungle adventures and heroic figures for generations.