Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad is a modernist novella that critiques European imperialism through the story of Marlow's journey into the African interior to meet the enigmatic Kurtz. At A-Level, students analyze its complex narrative structure, symbolic use of light and darkness, and the psychological and philosophical ambiguities that challenge readers to question the nature of civilization, savagery, and morality. The study encompasses historical context, postcolonial debates, and a range of critical interpretations.
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