Why is Heart of Darkness a frame story?

The use of a frame story in 'Heart of Darkness' adds depth and complexity. It allows for multiple perspectives and layers of storytelling that enhance the overall impact.

Yes, Heart of Darkness can be considered a frame story. The narrator's account of his journey up the Congo River serves as the framework within which Marlow's story is told.

In 'Heart of Darkness', the frame story begins with a group of men on a ship. Marlow tells his story to them, and this sets the stage for his account of his experiences in Africa. The outer story provides a contrast and context for the inner tale.

In 'Heart of Darkness', the frame is that of a group of men on a ship, the Nellie, listening to Marlow's story. The setting of the Congo is essential. It's a place full of thick jungles, large rivers. This setting helps to create an atmosphere of mystery and danger. The contrast between the civilized Europeans and the 'savage' African setting is also used to explore themes of imperialism, moral decay, etc. For example, the Europeans' actions in this alien and 'primitive' setting expose their true natures.

One main theme is the exploration of the human psyche. The frame story shows how the characters' inner selves are affected by the journey into the heart of darkness. Another theme is imperialism. It reflects on the impact of colonial powers on the native people and lands.

The frame of the story, Marlow's storytelling on the ship, creates an immediate sense of intimacy. We, as readers, are like the listeners on the ship. The Congo setting adds a sense of the unknown. It's a place far from the 'civilized' world. This makes it a perfect place for the dark events to unfold. It shows how the so - called civilized men can turn into monsters in a different setting.

The frame story structure gives a sense of perspective. It starts and ends with the narrator on a ship, which provides a frame of normalcy. Then the inner story unfolds, making the contrast more vivid.

Maybe Marlow tells the story to share his profound and disturbing experiences in the African jungle.

Well, 'Heart of Darkness' isn't a racist novel. Conrad was actually using the setting and the characters' views to expose the horror of imperialism. The way the African characters are sometimes described in a demeaning way by the European characters is to highlight how wrong the European imperialist attitude was. He was making a statement about the immorality of the whole colonial enterprise, not being racist.

The title 'Heart of Darkness' might refer to the exploration of the hidden, darker aspects of human nature and society that the story delves into.