Tarzan of the Apes · Chapter
XXII: The Search Party explained
The search party returns to the beach camp, reuniting Jane with her father and Clayton.
What happens
The search party returns to the beach camp, reuniting Jane with her father and Clayton. Jane anxiously inquires about the forest man who rescued her, leading to a tense exchange with Clayton, who dismisses the man as a savage. Later, Jane grapples with her feelings for the ape-man and Clayton, finding a love note from Tarzan. Clayton apologizes for his insinuations, but Jane's emotions remain conflicted.
Themes in this chapter
Civilization vs. Wilderness
Clayton contrasts the 'civilized' world with the 'savage' jungle, while Jane defends the forest man, blurring the line between beast and gentleman.
Love and Instinct
Jane's internal conflict between her love for the ape-man and societal expectations, as well as Clayton's jealousy, highlight the tension between instinctual attraction and civilized norms.
Identity and Belonging
Jane questions the forest man's identity and her own feelings, while Clayton's remarks challenge the man's humanity and place in society.
Characters to notice
- Jane Porter
Reunited with her father and Clayton; defends the forest man and struggles with her feelings for him and Clayton.
- John Clayton
Returns from the search expedition; expresses jealousy and suspicion toward the forest man, and later apologizes to Jane.
- Professor Porter
Reunites with Jane, overcome with emotion; his grief and love for his daughter are highlighted.
- Esmeralda
Comforts Jane in the cabin, though Jane is irritable and conflicted.
- Lieutenant Charpentier
Leads the French expedition back to the beach after the skirmish; reports to the cruiser.
Key passages
““He is a strange, half-savage creature of the jungle, Miss Porter. We know nothing of him. He neither speaks nor understands any European tongue—and his ornaments and weapons are those of the West Coast savages.””
Clayton describes the forest man as a mysterious, uncivilized being, unfamiliar with European languages and using savage tools.
Clayton's attempt to undermine the forest man's character, revealing his jealousy.
““Beast?” she murmured. “Then God make me a beast; for, man or beast, I am yours.””
Jane declares her devotion to the forest man, willing to become a beast herself if it means being with him.
Jane's emotional turning point, embracing her love for the ape-man despite societal norms.
““I would not have hurt you , above all others in the world. Say that you forgive me.””
Clayton apologizes to Jane for his hurtful insinuations, expressing regret and a desire for her forgiveness.
Clayton's apology reveals his deepening feelings for Jane, though it now frightens her.