Joseph Conrad's "Heart of Darkness" explores the darkness within humanity through the journey of Marlow, who travels up the Congo River to find Kurtz, an ivory trader. Marlow encounters various characters and experiences that reveal the moral and existential crises faced by individuals in colonial settings. The journey symbolizes the exploration of the human psyche and the impact of imperialism on both the colonizers and the colonized.
The quote "Mistah Kurtz—He dead" serves as a poignant reminder of Kurtz's demise, reflecting the disillusionment with colonialism and the darkness that it breeds. This stark statement encapsulates the tragedy of Kurtz's character and underscores the themes of corruption and despair that permeate the narrative. It also highlights the complexities of civilization versus savagery, making the reader ponder the true cost of imperialism.