Edgar Rice Burroughs’s sequel to his popular Tarzan of the Apes continues the ape-man’s adventures, this time primarily set in the civilized world. Having renounced his Greystoke heritage, the protagonist finds himself navigating the complexities of European society, facing new challenges and threats far different from the jungle he calls home. This narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the clash between primal instincts and societal expectations.
Published in 1913, this novel solidified Tarzan’s place as a literary icon and expanded upon the character’s depth and complexity. It served as a bridge between the initial jungle adventures and later installments, developing the character beyond his initial portrayal as a noble savage. The storys exploration of societal adaptation and the internal conflict between nature and nurture resonated with readers, contributing to the enduring popularity of the Tarzan mythos. This work represents an important stage in the evolution of adventure literature, laying the groundwork for future narratives exploring similar themes.
Further examination will delve into specific aspects of the narrative, including character development, thematic analysis, and the novel’s impact on popular culture. Discussion points will also include its place within Burroughs’s broader body of work and the legacy of this literary creation.
1. Sequel to Tarzan of the Apes
Understanding The Return of Tarzan necessitates acknowledging its position as the direct sequel to Tarzan of the Apes. This connection significantly impacts the narrative, character development, and thematic exploration within the second book. Examining the sequel relationship provides crucial context for appreciating the complexities of Tarzan’s journey.
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Continuing Character Arc
The Return of Tarzan picks up where Tarzan of the Apes leaves off, charting the protagonist’s continued evolution. Having experienced both jungle life and civilized society in the first novel, Tarzan grapples with his dual identity. The sequel explores the psychological and emotional consequences of this internal conflict.
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Expanding the World
While the first novel primarily focuses on the African jungle, the sequel broadens the narrative scope, introducing new settings like Europe. This geographical expansion reflects Tarzan’s journey of self-discovery and exposes him to different cultures and social structures, furthering his personal growth and the narrative’s complexity.
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Developing Themes
Themes introduced in Tarzan of the Apes, such as nature versus nurture and the search for belonging, are further developed in the sequel. Tarzan’s attempts to integrate into society highlight these themes, offering a nuanced exploration of identity and societal expectations.
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Building the Mythos
The Return of Tarzan is essential for solidifying the Tarzan mythos. It expands on the foundational elements established in the first book, creating a richer, more complex narrative framework for future installments. This sequel establishes recurring themes and character traits that define the Tarzan legend.
By understanding The Return of Tarzan as a direct continuation of Tarzan of the Apes, one gains deeper insight into the characters transformation and the broader narrative arc. The sequel builds upon the foundations laid in the first book, expanding the story’s scope and deepening its thematic resonance. This connection is crucial for appreciating the overall trajectory and enduring legacy of the Tarzan saga.
2. Civilization versus Wilderness
The Return of Tarzan hinges on the juxtaposition of civilization and wilderness. This central conflict shapes the narrative, driving character development and thematic exploration. Having experienced both worlds in the preceding novel, Tarzan now confronts the inherent tensions between them. The narrative explores this dichotomy not as a simple binary, but as a complex interplay influencing Tarzan’s identity and actions. His struggle to adapt to European society exposes the limitations and hypocrisies of civilization while highlighting the primal appeal of the natural world. This tension mirrors broader societal anxieties of the early 20th century regarding rapid industrialization and the perceived loss of connection with nature. The novel reflects contemporary debates concerning the benefits and drawbacks of progress, offering a nuanced perspective on the perceived conflict between human development and the natural environment. Examples of this conflict manifest in Tarzan’s discomfort with social customs, his preference for physical prowess over intellectual pursuits, and his intuitive understanding of the natural world, which contrasts sharply with the artificiality of civilized life. The narrative does not present either civilization or wilderness as inherently superior, but rather explores the complexities and contradictions inherent in both.
This exploration of civilization versus wilderness provides a framework for understanding Tarzan’s internal conflict. Torn between his primal instincts and the demands of society, he embodies the inherent tension between these two forces. The narrative utilizes this tension to examine broader themes of identity, belonging, and the human condition. For instance, Tarzan’s difficulty navigating social hierarchies and adhering to societal expectations underscores the challenges of assimilation and the potential for alienation within civilized structures. His resourcefulness and adaptability in the wilderness, conversely, emphasize the inherent human capacity for survival and the deep-seated connection between humans and the natural world. This contrast highlights the novel’s exploration of what it truly means to be human, questioning whether civilization elevates or diminishes the human spirit. The narrative’s exploration of these themes resonates with readers grappling with similar questions regarding societal pressures, personal identity, and the balance between human progress and environmental preservation.
In conclusion, the “civilization versus wilderness” theme in The Return of Tarzan serves as a crucial lens for understanding the narrative’s complexities. It provides a framework for analyzing Tarzan’s character development, exploring the novel’s broader thematic concerns, and recognizing its enduring relevance to contemporary issues. The narrative challenges simplistic notions of progress and civilization, urging reflection on the inherent value of both the natural world and the human capacity for adaptation. By exploring this central conflict, the novel offers a timeless exploration of the human condition and the enduring tension between the primal and the civilized. This core thematic element continues to resonate with readers today, making The Return of Tarzan a significant work within adventure literature and a compelling commentary on the human relationship with the natural world.
3. Identity and Belonging
The Return of Tarzan delves deeply into the complexities of identity and belonging, positioning these themes as central to the protagonist’s journey. Having been raised by apes yet possessing human heritage, Tarzan grapples with a divided sense of self. This internal conflict intensifies as he navigates European society, a world vastly different from the African jungle he once called home. The narrative explores the inherent challenges of reconciling disparate aspects of identity, particularly when societal expectations clash with internal self-perception. Tarzan’s struggle to find acceptance and belonging within civilized society mirrors the broader human experience of seeking connection and purpose in a complex world. His journey underscores the importance of self-discovery and the ongoing process of defining one’s place within a larger community.
The novel utilizes Tarzan’s experiences to examine the societal constructs that influence identity formation. Exposure to European aristocracy reveals the superficiality and rigid hierarchies that often dictate social acceptance. Tarzan’s discomfort with these social structures highlights the limitations of externally imposed definitions of identity. His inherent nobility, derived from his innate sense of justice and compassion, contrasts sharply with the artificiality of societal titles and expectations. This juxtaposition underscores the novel’s argument that true identity transcends superficial labels and stems from internal values and character. Examples within the narrative include Tarzan’s rejection of inherited wealth and his preference for genuine connections over social climbing, demonstrating the importance of authenticity in defining one’s sense of self. These choices reflect a broader societal shift toward valuing individual merit over inherited status.
In conclusion, the exploration of identity and belonging in The Return of Tarzan provides valuable insights into the human condition. Tarzan’s journey emphasizes the ongoing process of self-discovery and the challenges of finding one’s place in a complex world. The novel’s critique of societal constructs that dictate identity formation remains relevant today, encouraging readers to question superficial labels and embrace their authentic selves. By exploring these themes through the lens of a character caught between two worlds, the narrative offers a timeless message about the importance of self-acceptance and the pursuit of genuine connection. This focus on internal values over external validation resonates with readers across generations, solidifying the novel’s enduring appeal and its contribution to the broader literary discourse on identity and belonging.
4. Social Commentary
The Return of Tarzan, while an adventure novel, offers subtle yet pointed social commentary on early 20th-century European society. Burroughs utilizes Tarzan’s outsider perspective to critique the prevailing social norms and hierarchies of the time. The protagonist’s naivet regarding civilized customs allows him to expose the hypocrisies and superficialities inherent within aristocratic circles. This commentary extends beyond mere observation, exploring themes of class disparity, colonialism, and the exploitative nature of certain societal structures. The juxtaposition of Tarzan’s natural morality, developed in the jungle, with the often-duplicitous behavior of civilized individuals serves to question the assumed superiority of European society. This contrast highlights the potential for corruption within established institutions and challenges readers to critically examine the values underpinning their own social structures.
Specific examples of social commentary within the novel include the depiction of exploitative labor practices in colonial Africa, the superficiality and materialism of Parisian high society, and the casual racism encountered by individuals of different ethnicities. Tarzan’s interactions with various social strata reveal the stark inequalities prevalent at the time. His discomfort with the rigid social hierarchies and the often-arbitrary distribution of wealth and power underscores the inherent injustices within these systems. Furthermore, the novel’s portrayal of indigenous African cultures, while sometimes romanticized, offers a glimpse into alternative ways of life, challenging the prevailing Eurocentric worldview. This juxtaposition prompts reflection on the complexities of cultural exchange and the potential for mutual understanding and respect.
Understanding the social commentary woven into The Return of Tarzan enriches the reading experience and provides a deeper appreciation for the novel’s complexity. It reveals that the narrative transcends simple adventure tropes and engages with significant social and political issues of its time. While the novel’s setting is historical, the themes exploredsocial inequality, exploitation, and the search for authentic human connectionretain relevance in contemporary society. Recognizing this social commentary allows readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level, prompting critical reflection on both historical and contemporary social structures and the ongoing pursuit of a more just and equitable world.
5. Early 20th-Century Adventure
The Return of Tarzan stands as a prime example of early 20th-century adventure fiction. Published in 1913, the novel reflects the genre’s prevalent themes and stylistic conventions, offering insights into the cultural and historical context that shaped its creation. Examining its relationship to the broader landscape of adventure literature during this period provides a deeper understanding of the novel’s significance and enduring appeal.
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Exotic Locales and Exploration
Adventure literature of this era frequently featured exotic locales, reflecting a fascination with exploration and the expanding geographical knowledge of the time. The Return of Tarzan embraces this convention, transporting readers from the familiar landscapes of Europe to the wilds of Africa. This emphasis on exoticism caters to a sense of adventure and escapism, reflecting the era’s burgeoning interest in travel and the allure of the unknown.
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Masculinity and Heroism
Concepts of masculinity and heroism played a prominent role in early 20th-century adventure fiction. Protagonists often embodied physical prowess, courage, and resourcefulness. Tarzan, with his exceptional strength and aptitude for survival, exemplifies these ideals. The narrative reinforces prevailing notions of masculinity, celebrating physical strength and individual achievement in the face of adversity. This focus aligns with broader cultural trends emphasizing male dominance and the celebration of heroic individualism.
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Colonialism and Imperialism
The backdrop of colonialism and imperialism inevitably influenced adventure narratives of this period. The Return of Tarzan, set in part during the height of European colonial expansion in Africa, reflects this historical context. While not explicitly endorsing imperialist ideologies, the novel nonetheless presents a Eurocentric perspective on African cultures and landscapes. Analyzing this aspect provides insights into the complex relationship between adventure literature and the sociopolitical climate of the early 20th century.
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Emerging Genre Conventions
The Return of Tarzan contributed to the development of established genre conventions within adventure literature. The fast-paced narrative, perilous situations, and emphasis on action and suspense characteristic of the novel helped solidify these elements as hallmarks of the genre. Its success further cemented the popularity of serialized fiction and the enduring appeal of narratives centered on exotic locales and daring exploits. This influence can be seen in subsequent adventure literature and continues to shape the genre today.
By exploring these facets, one gains a deeper understanding of The Return of Tarzan‘s position within the broader context of early 20th-century adventure literature. The novel’s engagement with prevalent themes, stylistic conventions, and historical influences provides a lens through which to analyze its enduring appeal and its contribution to the development of the adventure genre. Examining these connections illuminates the novel’s significance as both a product of its time and a lasting influence on subsequent adventure narratives.
6. Expanding the Tarzan Mythos
The Return of Tarzan plays a crucial role in expanding the Tarzan mythos beyond the foundational narrative established in Tarzan of the Apes. This sequel develops the character’s complexity, introduces new environments and challenges, and solidifies core themes that resonate throughout the entire series. Analyzing its contribution to the broader Tarzan narrative reveals its significance in shaping the enduring legacy of this iconic character.
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Transition from Jungle to Civilization
The novel marks a significant shift in Tarzan’s journey, transitioning him from the familiar wilderness of the African jungle to the unfamiliar complexities of European society. This shift broadens the scope of the Tarzan narrative, demonstrating the character’s adaptability and exposing him to new conflicts and moral dilemmas. His experiences in civilization further develop his character, forcing him to confront societal expectations and grapple with his dual identity as both ape-man and nobleman.
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Development of Tarzan’s Character
The Return of Tarzan showcases significant character development. Tarzan’s emotional range expands as he navigates complex social situations, experiences love and loss, and confronts betrayal. This emotional depth adds layers to his character beyond the physical prowess and survival instincts emphasized in the first novel. His struggles with societal expectations and his yearning for belonging humanize him, making him a more relatable and compelling figure.
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Introduction of Recurring Themes
Several recurring themes within the Tarzan series solidify in The Return of Tarzan. The conflict between nature and civilization, the search for identity and belonging, and the importance of loyalty and honor emerge as central elements of the Tarzan mythos. The novel’s exploration of these themes provides a foundation for subsequent installments, establishing a thematic continuity that resonates throughout the entire series. This thematic consistency contributes to the cohesive narrative arc that defines the Tarzan mythos.
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Solidifying the Tarzan Archetype
This sequel solidifies the Tarzan archetype as a noble savage, a figure possessing both primal strength and inherent morality. Tarzan’s rejection of societal corruption and his unwavering adherence to his personal code of ethics reinforce this image. This portrayal resonates with readers who admire his independence, his physical prowess, and his unyielding sense of justice. The Return of Tarzan cements this image, contributing to the character’s enduring popularity and iconic status.
In conclusion, The Return of Tarzan serves as a pivotal installment in the Tarzan series, expanding the mythos and solidifying the character’s enduring appeal. By transitioning Tarzan from the jungle to civilization, developing his character’s emotional depth, introducing recurring themes, and solidifying the Tarzan archetype, this novel significantly shapes the trajectory of the entire series. Its contribution to the Tarzan mythos is essential for understanding the character’s enduring legacy and the continued fascination with his adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Return of Tarzan
This section addresses common inquiries regarding The Return of Tarzan, providing concise and informative responses.
Question 1: How does The Return of Tarzan connect to Tarzan of the Apes?
The Return of Tarzan is a direct sequel, continuing the narrative immediately following the conclusion of Tarzan of the Apes. It follows Tarzan’s journey after he renounces his Greystoke inheritance.
Question 2: Where does the story primarily take place?
While the first novel focuses on Africa, The Return of Tarzan shifts between civilized settings in Europe, primarily Paris, and various wilderness environments, including the African jungle and a desert island.
Question 3: What are the key themes explored in the novel?
The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, the conflict between civilization and wilderness, social adaptation, and the complexities of human nature.
Question 4: How does The Return of Tarzan contribute to the Tarzan mythos?
This novel develops Tarzan’s character beyond his initial portrayal as a “noble savage,” exploring his emotional depth and internal conflicts. It also introduces recurring themes and expands the narrative scope, laying the groundwork for future installments.
Question 5: Does the novel offer any social commentary?
Yes, The Return of Tarzan offers subtle social commentary on early 20th-century European society, particularly regarding class disparity, colonialism, and the hypocrisies of civilized life.
Question 6: Why is The Return of Tarzan considered significant within adventure literature?
The novel exemplifies early 20th-century adventure fiction, featuring exotic locales, exploring themes of heroism and masculinity, and contributing to the development of established genre conventions. It also offers a unique perspective on the clash between civilization and wilderness.
These responses offer a concise overview of key aspects of The Return of Tarzan, aiding comprehension and encouraging further exploration of this significant work of adventure literature.
Further analysis will delve into specific character relationships, plot developments, and the novel’s enduring impact on popular culture.
Tips for Understanding and Appreciating The Return of Tarzan
These tips offer guidance for approaching and interpreting Edgar Rice Burroughs’ The Return of Tarzan, enhancing comprehension and appreciation of the novel’s complexities.
Tip 1: Read Tarzan of the Apes First: As a direct sequel, The Return of Tarzan assumes familiarity with the events and characters established in the first book. Reading Tarzan of the Apes beforehand provides essential context for understanding Tarzan’s character development and the narrative’s trajectory.
Tip 2: Consider the Historical Context: Published in 1913, the novel reflects the social, cultural, and political climate of the early 20th century. Awareness of this context illuminates the novel’s engagement with contemporary issues such as colonialism, social hierarchies, and evolving notions of masculinity.
Tip 3: Pay Attention to the Theme of Civilization vs. Wilderness: This central theme permeates the narrative, shaping Tarzan’s internal conflicts and driving the plot. Recognizing the tension between these two forces enhances understanding of the novel’s deeper meanings.
Tip 4: Analyze Tarzan’s Character Development: Observe how Tarzan’s experiences in European society shape his identity and challenge his previously established worldview. Note his emotional responses, moral dilemmas, and evolving understanding of human relationships.
Tip 5: Recognize the Social Commentary: While an adventure story, The Return of Tarzan offers subtle critiques of societal structures and norms. Recognizing these underlying messages enhances appreciation for the novel’s complexity and enduring relevance.
Tip 6: Explore the Novel’s Contribution to the Tarzan Mythos: Consider how this installment expands the Tarzan narrative, developing recurring themes and solidifying the character’s iconic status. This perspective provides insights into the broader legacy of the Tarzan series.
Tip 7: Compare and Contrast with Other Adventure Literature: Placing The Return of Tarzan within the broader context of early 20th-century adventure fiction illuminates its unique qualities and its engagement with prevalent genre conventions.
Applying these tips offers a deeper understanding of The Return of Tarzan, moving beyond surface-level entertainment to appreciate the novel’s literary merit and enduring relevance.
The following concluding section synthesizes the key insights explored throughout this analysis, offering a final perspective on the novel’s lasting contribution to literature and popular culture.
Conclusion
Analysis of Burroughs’s The Return of Tarzan reveals a narrative exceeding the conventional adventure tale. Examination of its themesidentity, belonging, and the dichotomy between civilization and wildernessdemonstrates a nuanced exploration of the human condition. Placement within its historical context underscores the novel’s engagement with early 20th-century anxieties regarding societal change and the allure of the primitive. Furthermore, recognizing its contribution to the broader Tarzan mythos solidifies its importance within the series, showcasing character development and thematic expansion beyond the initial jungle narrative. The novel’s enduring popularity speaks to its exploration of universal human experiences, the challenges of adaptation, and the search for meaning within a complex world.
The Return of Tarzan stands as a significant work within adventure literature, prompting continued exploration of its themes and their relevance to contemporary society. Its exploration of the internal conflict between nature and nurture, coupled with social commentary on class and colonialism, offers fertile ground for further critical analysis. The novel’s enduring legacy encourages readers to reflect on their own relationship with the natural world and the complexities of human civilization. It serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to explore fundamental questions about identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a world grappling with constant change.
