Heart of Darkness is a novella by Joseph Conrad, published in 1899, that explores the profound effects of imperialism and the darkness inherent in human nature. The story is narrated by Charles Marlow, a sailor who embarks on a journey into the Congo River basin in search of Kurtz, an enigmatic ivory trader.

Marlow begins his tale aboard a British ship anchored on the Thames, where he reflects on his past experiences in Africa. He takes a job with a Belgian ivory trading company and travels to the Congo, initially filled with excitement and curiosity about the uncharted territories. However, upon arrival, he is confronted with the brutal realities of colonial exploitation—the suffering of native Africans forced into servitude and the moral decay of European agents.