Tarzan of the Apes, written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, is an iconic adventure novel that has captivated readers for over a century.
This thrilling tale follows the journey of a young boy named Tarzan, who is raised by apes in the African jungle after being orphaned. It is a story of survival, self-discovery, and the clash between civilization and the untamed wilderness.
Book Summary of Tarzan of the Apes
In Tarzan of the Apes, the readers are introduced to John Clayton III, the Earl of Greystoke, and his pregnant wife, who are stranded on the African coast after their ship is wrecked. Unfortunately, they do not survive, but their newborn son is discovered by Kala, an ape, who adopts him as her own. The baby, named Tarzan, grows up among the apes, learning their ways and becoming one with the jungle.
As Tarzan grows older, he becomes curious about his origins and begins to question his place in the world. When he encounters other humans, including Jane Porter and her father, Tarzan’s life takes a dramatic turn. He must navigate the complexities of human society while also embracing his wild instincts. Tarzan’s extraordinary strength and agility, combined with his intelligence, make him a formidable force to be reckoned with.
Movie Summary of Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes has also been adapted into various films, bringing the beloved character to life on the silver screen. The movie adaptation captures the essence of the book, showcasing Tarzan’s extraordinary abilities and his struggle to find his place in the world.
The film takes viewers on a thrilling adventure through the African jungle, with stunning visuals and breathtaking action sequences.
Setting and Timeframe of Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes is set in the heart of the African jungle, a vast and untamed wilderness teeming with exotic wildlife and hidden dangers. The story takes place during the late 19th century, a time when Africa was still largely unexplored and filled with mystery.
The isolated and treacherous nature of the jungle serves as a backdrop for Tarzan’s journey of self-discovery and his encounters with both humans and animals.
Film Locations for Tarzan of the Apes
The film adaptation of Tarzan of the Apes showcases stunning locations that bring the African jungle to life. Filmmakers scouted various locations to capture the untamed beauty and rawness of Tarzan’s world.
From dense rainforests to cascading waterfalls, each setting adds depth and authenticity to the film. Some notable filming locations include the lush landscapes of Gabon, the breathtaking Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, and the dense jungles of Madagascar.
Character Analysis: Who’s Who in Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters, each playing a significant role in Tarzan’s journey. Tarzan, the protagonist, is a compelling character, torn between his wild upbringing and his human heritage.
Jane Porter, Tarzan’s love interest, is a strong and independent woman who finds herself drawn to the mysterious jungle man. Other notable characters include Professor Archimedes Q. Porter, Jane’s father, and Clayton, a treacherous antagonist who seeks to exploit the riches of the African jungle.
Memorable Quotes from Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes is filled with memorable quotes that capture the essence of the story and its characters. Here are a few notable quotes:
- “I had rather be an ape than a man. I would rather be a savage than a slave.”
- “My heart is filled with gratitude for my unknown benefactors. I am Tarzan of the Apes.”
- “I am Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle, mighty hunter, mighty fighter. In all the world, there is none so great as Tarzan.”
- “I love you, Jane! I love you as I love the jungle.”
- “Tarzan of the Apes had made a discovery. He was alone.”
These quotes exemplify Tarzan’s struggle with identity, his love for the jungle, and his determination to protect those he cares about.
Exploring the Soundtrack by David Newman
The soundtrack of Tarzan of the Apes, composed by David Newman, enhances the emotional depth and intensity of the story. Newman’s score perfectly captures the wild and untamed spirit of the jungle while also conveying the tender moments between Tarzan and Jane.
The soundtrack is a blend of tribal rhythms, sweeping orchestral melodies, and haunting vocals, creating a rich musical tapestry that brings the story to life.
Curiosities and Fun Facts about Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes has fascinated readers and moviegoers for decades, and there are several intriguing curiosities and fun facts surrounding the story. For instance, did you know that Tarzan’s famous yell was created by a recording of a yodel?
Or that the character of Tarzan has appeared in over 200 films and adaptations? These fun facts add an extra layer of fascination to the already captivating world of Tarzan.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Tarzan and Jane
For fans who want to bring the spirit of Tarzan and Jane to life, cosplay provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of the jungle. To dress like Tarzan, opt for a loincloth made from natural materials, accessorize with tribal-inspired jewelry, and embrace a rugged and wild hairstyle.
For Jane, choose flowing and earth-toned dresses, accessorize with vintage-inspired jewelry, and embrace a natural and adventurous spirit. Cosplaying as Tarzan and Jane allows fans to embody the untamed spirit of these iconic characters.
Edgar Rice Burroughs: A Brief Biography
Edgar Rice Burroughs, the author of Tarzan of the Apes, led a fascinating life that greatly influenced his writing. Born in 1875 in Chicago, Burroughs ventured into various careers, including soldiering, ranching, and business before finding success as a writer.
His experiences and travels shaped his vivid imagination and provided the inspiration for his iconic characters and thrilling adventures.
Top 5 Works by Edgar Rice Burroughs
In addition to Tarzan of the Apes, Edgar Rice Burroughs created a vast universe of captivating stories. Here are five of his best works:
- “A Princess of Mars”: This novel introduces readers to the character of John Carter, a Civil War veteran who finds himself transported to the planet Mars, where he becomes embroiled in an epic conflict.
- “The Land That Time Forgot”: This thrilling adventure takes readers to a mysterious island filled with prehistoric creatures and explores themes of evolution and survival.
- “The Pellucidar Series”: This series follows the adventures of David Innes as he discovers a hidden world inside the Earth, filled with strange creatures and ancient civilizations.
- “The Barsoom Series”: Also known as the John Carter of Mars series, this collection of novels explores the adventures of John Carter on the planet Mars, featuring epic battles, romance, and political intrigue.
- “The Tarzan Series”: This iconic series follows Tarzan’s adventures in the African jungle, showcasing his strength, intelligence, and his ongoing struggle to reconcile his wild nature with the human world.
Other Media Adaptations by Reinhard Klooss
In addition to the classic adaptations of Tarzan of the Apes, Reinhard Klooss has also brought other beloved stories to life on the big screen. Some notable adaptations by Klooss include “Animals United,” a heartwarming tale of unity among animals, and “T-Rex: Back to the Cretaceous,” a thrilling dinosaur adventure in 3D.
10 Similar Movies to Tarzan of the Apes
If you enjoyed Tarzan of the Apes, here are ten similar movies that will transport you to exotic locations, explore themes of adventure and self-discovery, and showcase unforgettable characters:
- “The Jungle Book” (1967)
- “Apocalypto” (2006)
- “The Legend of Tarzan” (2016)
- “George of the Jungle” (1997)
- “The Emerald Forest” (1985)
- “The African Queen” (1951)
- “The Lost City of Z” (2016)
- “The Blue Lagoon” (1980)
- “The Gods Must Be Crazy” (1980)
- “The Call of the Wild” (2020)
Book Club Questions for Tarzan of the Apes
For those who want to delve deeper into the themes and characters of Tarzan of the Apes, here are some thought-provoking book club questions:
- How does Tarzan’s dual identity as both a human and an ape shape his character and actions throughout the story?
- What role does the African jungle play as a character in the novel? How does it impact the development of Tarzan and the other characters?
- Discuss the portrayal of gender roles in the novel, particularly in the character of Jane Porter. How does she defy or conform to societal expectations?
- What does Tarzan’s journey of self-discovery teach us about the nature of identity and belonging?
- Explore the themes of civilization versus the wild and how they are represented in the novel.
Top 10 Similar Novels to Tarzan of the Apes
If you’re looking for more thrilling adventures in the same vein as Tarzan of the Apes, here are ten similar novels that will transport you to exotic locations, introduce you to unforgettable characters, and keep you on the edge of your seat:
- “Robinson Crusoe” by Daniel Defoe
- “Heart of Darkness” by Joseph Conrad
- “The Lost World” by Arthur Conan Doyle
- “King Solomon’s Mines” by H. Rider Haggard
- “The Swiss Family Robinson” by Johann David Wyss
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville
- “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding
- “The Island of Doctor Moreau” by H.G. Wells
- “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
- “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain
Parent Guide for Tarzan of the Apes
Tarzan of the Apes is an exciting adventure novel that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. However, it does contain some intense scenes and themes that may not be suitable for younger children.
Parents should consider the level of maturity of their child and decide if the content is appropriate. It is recommended to read the book together and have discussions about the themes and situations depicted in the story.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Tarzan Fans
If you or someone you know is a Tarzan fan, here are some buying guide and gift ideas to enhance the Tarzan experience:
- Tarzan books: Complete your collection with other Tarzan novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs or explore different adaptations of the character.
- Tarzan movies: Add the movie adaptations of Tarzan of the Apes to your film collection or discover other Tarzan films that bring the character to life.
- Tarzan merchandise: From action figures to clothing, there is a wide range of Tarzan-themed merchandise available for fans to show their love for the character.
- Jungle-themed decor: Bring the spirit of the African jungle to your home with jungle-themed decor, such as animal prints, tribal-inspired artwork, and lush green plants.
- Adventure experiences: For the ultimate Tarzan fan, consider gifting an adventure experience, such as a jungle safari or a tree-climbing adventure, to channel your inner Tarzan.
Conclusion
Tarzan of the Apes, written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, is a timeless adventure novel that has captured the imaginations of readers and moviegoers for generations. The story of Tarzan’s journey from a wild child raised by apes to a man torn between two worlds is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the enduring spirit of the untamed wilderness.
Whether through the original book or its various adaptations, Tarzan’s story continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. So grab a copy of Tarzan of the Apes, immerse yourself in the wild and thrilling world of Tarzan, and let the adventure begin.
