Tarzan

Tarzan All Story

Tarzan and the Golden Lion

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The Adventures of Tarzan (1921) - 2

Tarzan of the Apes in color

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Poster - Tarzan the Fearless 01

Tarzan is a fictional character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, first appearing in the novel Tarzan of the Apes (1912). The character is the archetypal feral child raised in the African jungle by the Mangani great apes; he later experiences civilization only to largely reject it and return to the wild as a heroic adventurer. Tarzan's story has been adapted into numerous forms, including films, television series, radio programs, and comics, making him an enduring icon of popular culture.

Character Overview

Tarzan's real name is John Clayton, Viscount Greystoke. According to Burroughs' story, he was born in the late 19th century to British aristocrats marooned on the Atlantic coast of Africa. After his parents' death, Tarzan is adopted and raised by the fictional species of great apes called Mangani. As he grows, Tarzan develops physical skills far beyond those of ordinary humans, along with the ability to communicate with many species of jungle animals. He eventually learns of his human heritage through various encounters with other humans, including Jane Porter, who becomes his wife.

Themes and Analysis

The Tarzan series explores complex themes such as nature versus nurture, the impact of civilization on natural life, and the idea of the noble savage. Tarzan's ability to navigate both the jungle and the civilized world raises questions about where true human identity lies. The stories have been critiqued for their portrayal of race and colonialism, reflecting the attitudes of their time.

Adaptations

Tarzan has been the subject of numerous adaptations. The character has appeared in over 50 films, including the silent film era's Tarzan of the Apes (1918) and Disney's animated feature Tarzan (1999). Television adaptations have ranged from the 1966 live-action series Tarzan starring Ron Ely, to the more recent animated series The Legend of Tarzan (2001-2003). Tarzan has also been featured in radio programs, stage productions, and video games.

Literary Significance and Legacy

Tarzan is considered one of the most iconic characters in popular culture, and his story has been a part of the public imagination for over a century. Edgar Rice Burroughs' creation has influenced not only the adventure genre but also the way stories of the wild and the notion of the "natural man" are perceived. The character's enduring popularity demonstrates the universal appeal of the adventure narrative and the fantasy of living in harmony with nature.

See Also

• Edgar Rice Burroughs
• Feral child
• Adventure fiction
• Jungle tales