Book Review: Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs!

28 Mar 2024

Book Review: Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs!

Like many, I grew up watching the black-and-white movies of "Tarzan of Africa." To me, Tarzan was a hero, a figure of fascination. He swung from vines with ease and conversed with animals - a true jungle king. But my perception of Tarzan changed as I grew older and revisited his story.
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Years later, I picked up a 2010 reprint of Edgar Rice Burroughs' original 1914 novel, "Tarzan of the Apes." Reading it, I discovered a new side to Tarzan. The character I once admired now seemed different, more complex, and perhaps not the hero I once thought.

Interestingly, I also listened to the book on CD, where I noticed differences. Some words and phrases were changed or omitted, particularly those that were racially insensitive. This adaptation softened the harsher aspects of the original text but also altered my understanding of Tarzan's world.
Unraveling the Story of Tarzan
The first half of "Tarzan of the Apes" focuses on Tarzan's life among the apes. Initially struggling, Tarzan soon surpasses his peers in skill and intelligence. This part of the story is like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly, but in a jungle setting, showing how Tarzan evolved from a mere survivor to a leader.

The second half of the book shifts to Tarzan meeting other humans for the first time. These encounters reveal more about Tarzan's views and actions, especially his interactions with people of different races. It's like Tarzan was at a crossroads, meeting people who looked like him but were from a world he never knew.

The novel portrays Tarzan as superior to the apes, a mystical figure to the local tribes, and a gentleman to white women. It's a mix of admiration and fear, like the sun casting both light and shadows. Tarzan is shown as both a product of nature and nurture, his instincts clashing with his upbringing.
Reflecting on Tarzan's Legacy
"Tarzan of the Apes" is a tale that stirs mixed feelings. It's like a mirror reflecting both the good and bad of society at the time. Tarzan is a hero to some, a villain to others, and a symbol of racial superiority to many. His actions and the book's themes open a window to the past, showing us beliefs and attitudes that were once common.

Despite its controversial nature, "Tarzan of the Apes" can be a valuable resource. It's like a map showing us where we've been and how far we've come. Students in various fields can analyze and learn from its portrayal of different cultures, its depiction of nature versus nurture, and its historical context.
A Final Thought
"Tarzan of the Apes" is more than just a story. It's a journey through time, a reflection of societal views, and a character study. Reading it is like walking through a gallery of the past, observing the paintings of beliefs and attitudes from a bygone era. It reminds us of the importance of understanding history, learning from it, and growing as a society.

In conclusion, Tarzan's tale, from my childhood admiration to my adult understanding, shows how our perceptions can change. It's like watching the colors of leaves change with the seasons - the same tree, but different hues at different times. Tarzan, the once heroic figure in my eyes, now stands as a complex character, a blend of fiction and the reality of past societal beliefs.

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