: The legendary tale of Tarzan
In the annals of literary history, there are few characters who have captured the imagination quite like Tarzan. First appearing in October 1912 with Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel Tarzan of the Apes, this iconic character transcended the pages of fiction to become a cultural phenomenon. From blockbuster films to children's books, from television shows to radio shows, and even marketing campaigns for gasoline, toys, underwear, and sneakers – Tarzan left an indelible mark on popular culture.
Mysterious origins:
Tarzan, whose real name is John Clayton, appears as the orphan son of British nobility. His parents' ill-fated voyage off the coast of Africa sets the stage for Tarzan's extraordinary journey. After a mutiny on board, the ship washes ashore, leaving baby John an orphan. He is adopted and raised by a benevolent Mangani monkey, a fictional species, who names him "Tarzan", meaning "white skin" in the language of monkeys.
Tarzan's Extraordinary Adventures:
As Tarzan matures, he navigates the jungle with remarkable dexterity, and eventually falls in love with an American girl named Jane. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of lush African landscapes. When Jane leaves the island, Tarzan begins searching for her, leading to a joyful reunion and eventual marriage. Together they had a son named Korak.
Back to nature:
Despite their period of bliss in London, Tarzan and Jane decide to return to the purity of the jungle, escaping the duality and hypocrisy of city life. Their journey back to the island marks a turning point in the narrative, as they become immortal characters, living forever according to the tale of “Tarzan of the Apes.”
Long-term impact:
Beyond his literary roots, Tarzan's legacy extends into real-world discussions. Renowned American author Philip Farmer delves into the world of speculation, suggesting that a cosmic event that occurred in 1795 changed the genetic makeup of individuals in the British town of Wold Newton. According to Farmer, famous fictional characters such as Tarzan, Sherlock Holmes and James Bond are descendants of those affected by this event. While Farmer's theory is widely considered fanciful, it adds an interesting layer to the mystery surrounding Tarzan.
Tarzan, the legendary character
Born from the imagination of Edgar Rice Burroughs, it continues to captivate audiences around the world. From the pages of the novel to the silver screen, his journey is one of adventure, love, and an unrelenting connection to the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. When we delve into the Tarzan mythology, we find not only a compelling story, but also a character whose influence resonates across generations, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of literature and beyond.
Tarzan's complex personality:
Tarzan, the famous literary creation of Edgar Rice Burroughs, stands as a testament to the power of imagination. Behind this legendary character lies a fascinating journey that reflects the author's turbulent life. From military service to stationery sales, Burroughs' diverse experiences culminated in the creation of Tarzan, a character whose legacy will transcend time and media.
Edgar Rice Burroughs' Journey:
Edgar Rice Burroughs, the architect of the Tarzan universe, faced multiple setbacks before crafting the story of "Tarzan of the Apes." After graduating from the Michigan Military Academy in 1895, Burroughs joined the 17th Cavalry, tasked with hunting down Native Americans in North America, specifically Apaches. However, a heart condition cut short his military career, and pushed him into various careers, eventually leading him to work as a school supply salesman.
Tarzan's upbringing:
Burroughs's encounter with a magazine containing comic strips led to the genesis of Tarzan. Driven by the belief that he could write better tales, Burroughs embarked on a journey that would give birth to one of literary's most enduring figures.
Mysterious Tarzan:
In Burroughs' novel, Tarzan appears as a formidable figure, engaging in battles with both animals and the island's native inhabitants. Described as a human resembling an ancient Greek statue with ash-gray eyes, Tarzan's wild and violent nature was shaped by his upbringing in the jungle. The compelling story unfolds against the backdrop of a shipwreck, the death of Tarzan's parents, and his adoption by a giant ape.
Legacy and controversies:
While the early Tarzan novels and films were hugely successful, later works struggled to match the initial acclaim. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, criticism arose regarding perceived racist elements in the character of Tarzan, with some interpreting the name "Tarzan" as a symbol of white supremacy. At the same time, feminists criticized the depiction of Tarzan as a symbol of male dominance.
The tale of Tarzan transcends its fictional origins, weaving together the life of Edgar Rice Burroughs and the lasting legacy of a character who left an indelible mark on literature and popular culture. As we delve into the complexities of Tarzan's character, we find a reflection of the evolving societal attitudes that continue to shape discussions of race and gender.