Quite often in the study of literature, main characters receive the bulk to analysis and study. Although these characters offer considerable representation of human nature, the names that are written on fewer pages often offer just as much depth. These hidden gems that appear in a few or even in a single chapter intrigue me the most. They have so much to say.
The African mistress’ character in Heart of Darkness is mysterious and wild. She is a personification of all of nature. She is a leader of the other natives and has a powerful and assured personality. Her character is steadfast, but abnormal, powerful, but often quiet. Ultimately, she is a proud, strong, and mysterious character that intrigues the reader. She wears fringed cloth, “brass leggings to the knee,” “brass wire gauntlets to the elbow,” her hair in the shape of a helmet, and many glass beads and ornaments around her neck. Her dress represents her tribe’s religion that worships nature. Her behavior is permeated with confidence, maturity, and wildness. She walks with precision and carries her head high. As she approaches the steamer both times, she approaches with purpose and throws her arms in the air. When she raises her arms the first time, she leads the natives to board the steamer, and the second time, she voices a goodbye to Kurtz as the natives echo her cry. She is not disturbed like the others by the steam whistle. She exudes confidence and mystique from her initial appearance to her last.
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The mistress' intrigue and strength haunts and inspires.
