Mr. Kurtz––man, myth, total beast. Part III of the story seems to focus exclusively on him. However, we learn about him through the eyes of his peers. The reviews seem to be mixed.
On the one hand, Kurtz has a number of positive attributes. He clearly commands the respect and admiration of those whom have spent time with him. For example, the Russian defends Mr. Kurtz for wanting to shoot him; he says, "You can't judge Mr. Kurtz as you would an ordinary man." Then, Marlow is told that: "You don't know how such a life tries a man like Kurtz." At this point, Marlow says, "I suppose it did not occur to him that Mr. Kurtz was no idol of mine." However, this attitude changes. Marlow later says, "I affirm that Kurtz was a remarkable man." For instance, we learn that "Kurtz had been essentially a great musician." Furthermore, even the natives hold a vigil for him.
On the other hand, Kurtz has a variety of idiosyncrasies. The Russian describes one such situation: "I don't mind telling you, he wanted to shoot me too one day––but I don't judge him for that." We learn this was all over a small amount of ivory. He is also described as "contemptibly childish" because of his desire to meet kings at railway stations. Also, he has allegedly hurt the company. The Manager bluntly says, "He is very low, very low... Mr Kurtz has done more harm than good to the company." Shortly thereafter, we learn that "Kurtz had ordered the attack to be made on the steamer."Yet Mr. Kurtz is supposed to be the future of the company.
How much of the Manager's complaints do you buy? What is your opinion of Kurtz? Is he more crazy than he's worth?
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