Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
  • 1. Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad is a profound novella that explores the complexities of colonialism and civilization through the harrowing journey of its protagonist, Charles Marlow, as he travels up the Congo River into the depths of the African continent. Set against the backdrop of European imperialism in the late 19th century, the narrative delves into the darkness that lurks in the hearts of men and the moral ambiguity of exploitation and greed. Marlow's voyage serves as both a literal expedition into the unknown and a metaphorical exploration of the human psyche, as he encounters the enigmatic figure of Kurtz, an ivory trader whose descent into madness embodies the corrupting influence of unchecked power and the moral decay that can arise from imperial conquest. Through vivid and evocative imagery, Conrad weaves themes of alienation, existential angst, and the duality of human nature, prompting readers to grapple with the unsettling realities of colonialism and the inherent darkness that exists within civilization itself.

    Who is the narrator of 'Heart of Darkness'?
A) Charlie Marlow
B) The Manager
C) Danny
D) Kurtz
  • 2. What river is Marlow sent to navigate?
A) The Mississippi River
B) The Nile River
C) The Congo River
D) The Amazon River
  • 3. What does Marlow seek to understand?
A) The nature of civilization and savagery
B) The essence of love
C) The philosophy of war
D) The structure of government
  • 4. Which company employs Marlow?
A) The English Trading Company
B) The Belgian Company
C) The Dutch East India Company
D) The French Mission Society
  • 5. What does the painting of the woman represent?
A) Greed and corruption
B) Hope and redemption
C) The idea of civilization
D) Truth and justice
  • 6. What does Marlow tell the Intended about Kurtz's last words?
A) He is truthful and honest
B) He admits Kurtz's failure
C) He lies to protect her
D) He avoids the subject
  • 7. What role do the blackflakes (the pilgrims) play?
A) They are helpers to Marlow
B) They represent the greed and madness of imperialism
C) They symbolize hope
D) They are protectors of civilization
  • 8. What is the significance of the Intended?
A) She is a vehicle for revenge
B) She is a symbol of colonial power
C) She symbolizes the illusion of European ideals
D) She represents love and companionship
  • 9. What does Kurtz's station represent?
A) The heart of darkness and colonial exploitation
B) A place of peace
C) A hub of commerce
D) A center of culture
  • 10. Who dies at the end of the novel?
A) Kurtz
B) The Intended
C) The Manager
D) Marlow
  • 11. What is Kurtz's famous last words?
A) Love conquers all.
B) To be or not to be.
C) I am your father!
D) The horror! The horror!
Created with That Quiz — the math test generation site with resources for other subject areas.