# Ara the Lightning explained — Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle

> Chapter companion for Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## What happens

Tarzan divides the safari, ordering Stimbol out of the jungle while allowing Blake to stay and take pictures. Stimbol, humiliated and vengeful, disobeys Tarzan's orders by hunting an antelope, causing his men to desert him. During a violent storm, Tarzan is struck by lightning and knocked unconscious. Stimbol finds him and attempts to kill him with a knife, but Bolgani the gorilla intervenes, stopping the attack. Tarzan awakens and spares Stimbol, then leaves him to fend for himself.

## Themes in this chapter

### Survival and Resilience

Tarzan survives a lightning strike and an assassination attempt, while Stimbol must survive alone after being deserted.

### Justice and Vengeance

Tarzan enforces his authority by expelling Stimbol, and Stimbol plots revenge; Bolgani's intervention prevents a murder.

### Civilization vs. Wilderness

Stimbol's arrogance and disregard for jungle laws contrast with Tarzan's command over nature and the animals.

## Character check-ins

### Tarzan

Divides the safari, confronts Stimbol, is struck by lightning, and is saved from assassination by Bolgani.

### Nasrany Stimbol

Humiliated by Tarzan, disobeys orders by hunting, is deserted by his men, and attempts to kill the unconscious Tarzan.

### James Hunter Blake

Given permission by Tarzan to stay and take pictures; departs with his own safari.

### Bolgani

Confronts Tarzan on the trail, shelters during the storm, and intervenes to save Tarzan from Stimbol's attack.

## Key lines

> I am Tarzan of the Apes, Lord of the Jungle. You have brought white men into my country to kill my people. I am displeased.

Tarzan asserts his authority over the safari, condemning the intrusion and killing in his domain.

_Tarzan establishes his dominance and sets the terms for the expedition._

> With Tarzan dead he could be free to do as he pleased; but was the ape-man dead?

Stimbol sees Tarzan's unconscious body as an opportunity to eliminate his rival and regain control.

_Stimbol's murderous intent reveals his deep resentment and desperation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tarzan_lord_of_the_jungle_se/chapters/vi-ara-the-lightning
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tarzan_lord_of_the_jungle_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/tarzan_lord_of_the_jungle_se/chapters