Tarzan of the Apes · Chapter
Lost Treasure explained
The expedition debates whether to leave the jungle after failing to rescue D'Arnot.
What happens
The expedition debates whether to leave the jungle after failing to rescue D'Arnot. Jane Porter passionately defends the forest man, arguing that his continued absence proves he is still aiding D'Arnot. Despite the loss of the treasure chest, Jane insists on waiting for him, leaving supplies and a message in the cabin. She privately confesses her love for him, even as doubts about his origins creep in.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Belonging
Jane and the officers debate whether the forest man is a white man raised by savages or a member of the native tribe, highlighting the ambiguity of his identity.
Love and Instinct
Jane's unwavering faith in and love for the forest man, despite doubts and societal pressure, underscores the instinctual bond between them.
Characters to notice
- Jane Porter
Defends the forest man's character and motives, insists on waiting for him, and leaves a heartfelt message and locket in the cabin.
- Captain Dufranne
Anxious to sail, but persuaded by Jane to delay; skeptical yet intrigued by the forest man.
- John Clayton
Admits fear of jungle noises and supports the decision to wait, though he doubts the forest man's background.
- Professor Porter
Resigned to the loss of the treasure chest; participates in the debate about the forest man.
- Esmeralda
Expresses fear and desire to leave the jungle, calling it a 'geological garden' full of 'lonesome noises.'
- Lieutenant Charpentier
Shares his own fear of jungle noises and eyes; speculates that the forest man might be a member of the native tribe.
Key passages
“You are judging him according to your own standards, gentlemen. An ordinary white man such as any of you—pardon me, I did not mean just that—rather, a white man above the ordinary in physique and intelligence could never, I grant you, have lived a year alone and naked in this tropical jungle; but this man not only surpasses the average white man in strength and agility, but as far transcends our trained athletes and ‘strong men’ as they surpass a day-old babe; and his courage and ferocity in battle are those of the wild beast.”
Jane argues that the forest man cannot be judged by normal standards, as his strength, courage, and survival skills far exceed those of any ordinary white man.
Jane's defense elevates the forest man to a superhuman status, challenging the officers' assumptions.
“I love you, and because I love you I believe in you. But if I did not believe, still should I love. Had you come back for me, and had there been no other way, I would have gone into the jungle with you—forever.”
Jane confesses her unconditional love for the forest man, vowing to follow him into the jungle if necessary.
This private declaration reveals the depth of Jane's emotional commitment, overriding logic and societal norms.