The Evolution of Tarzan: From Lord of the Apes to Lord of the Jungle

Tarzan, the legendary character, has undergone significant transformations over the years while remaining a popular figure. This article examines how Tarzan has evolved and why he remains such a beloved character.

Origins and Early Evolution

Tarzan's journey began with the original story, which is notably racially prejudiced and contains violent elements. To understand his early character, it's important to look at his background. Tarzan, originally parceled to a gorilla tribe, quickly became the dominant male gorilla, achieving this through eliminating the existing dominant male gorilla. Despite his initial savagery, Tarzan exhibited both violent and murderous tendencies, which were justified by the exigent circumstances of his upbringing. However, it's clear that these aspects were not universally approved.

Addressing Criticisms and Adaptations

Despite the immense popularity of the story, there were likely letters and criticisms concerning the more violent and amoral aspects of Tarzan. This led to a shift in characterization in subsequent stories, often seen as more conscientious. Tarzan transformed from a violent, racial prejudiced individual into a more typical British colonial figure, reflecting the attitudes prevalent during that era.

His portrayal in these later books saw a softer approach, with Tarzan becoming less murderous toward native Africans and acting more fatherly. Although he retained his hunting skills, these became more humane. This shift also included a move from being "lord of the apes" to "lord of the jungle," as the character's role as a surrogate parent, communicator, and protector of various animals and native inhabitants became more prominent.

The Tarzan of Movies: Classic and Modern

When it comes to Tarzan's film adaptations, a significant transformation occurred. In the classic movies, Tarzan's character was given a more heroic appearance, with his ability to communicate with all the animals of the jungle (inspired by Dr. Dolittle). This portrayal has often been seen as more fantastical and less grounded in reality, compared to the books. In the movies, Tarzan transitions from the "lord of the apes" to the "lord of the jungle," complete with iconic scenes where he summons animals with his yell.

Another notable change in the movie adaptations is the depiction of Jane. In the books, Jane was a proper lady of the period who joined Tarzan in rare, adventurous situations that were unavoidable. However, in the movies, Jane is often portrayed as a more jungle-friendly figure, almost like a female Tarzan. Nevertheless, these deviations from the original story can lead to criticism, particularly regarding the treatment of animals, with the inclusion of Cheetah, a chimpanzee, being a recurring point of contention.

Cultural Legacy

Despite these changes and controversies, Tarzan has remained a beloved character. His enduring popularity is evidenced by his continued presence in modern media and pop culture, from comic books to contemporary novels and films. The character's evolution reflects broader cultural changes and societal attitudes over time.

The journey of Tarzan from a violent young man to a respected and influential leader in the jungle has made him a symbol of transformation and resilience. His ability to adapt to different roles and challenges resonates with audiences, and his complex character allows for a rich narrative tapestry that continues to capture the imagination.

In conclusion, Tarzan's evolution from "lord of the apes" to "lord of the jungle" represents a journey of transformation, adaptation, and growth. His enduring popularity lies in his ability to change with the times, while still maintaining the core essence that captivated readers and audiences from the beginning.