From Jungle Myth to Literary Legend: Is Tarzan Based Off a True Story?
The legend of Tarzan, the orphaned child raised by apes, has captivated audiences for over a century. But is Tarzan based off a true story? The answer, definitively, is no, although inspiration was drawn from various sources and real-life accounts.
The Origins of a Jungle Icon
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s creation, Tarzan of the Apes, burst onto the literary scene in 1912, instantly captivating readers with its exotic setting, thrilling action, and romantic themes. The story resonated deeply, tapping into primal instincts and a longing for a simpler, more natural existence. But where did Burroughs get his ideas?
Literary Inspirations and Cultural Context
Burroughs wasn’t working in a vacuum. His novel was influenced by:
- Romulus and Remus: The foundational myth of Rome features infants raised by a wolf, echoing the theme of children nurtured by animals.
- The Noble Savage: A romanticized concept popularized by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, suggesting that humans are inherently good in their natural state, corrupted only by civilization.
- Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book: Published nearly two decades earlier, Kipling’s stories featuring Mowgli, a boy raised by wolves, undoubtedly influenced Burroughs’s imagining of Tarzan.
- Exploration Narratives: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw increased European exploration of Africa, fueling the public’s fascination with the continent and providing Burroughs with vivid imagery and potential scenarios.
Real-Life “Wild Children” and Feral Individuals
While Tarzan himself isn’t based on a single, verifiable individual, numerous historical accounts and documented cases of “feral children” or individuals raised in the wild exist. These cases, though often tragic, undoubtedly contributed to the allure and believability of the Tarzan myth. Consider:
- Victor of Aveyron: A boy found wandering in the woods of France in the late 18th century, Victor became a subject of intense study and attempts at socialization.
- Oxana Malaya: A Ukrainian girl raised by dogs for several years, demonstrating remarkable adaptation and survival skills.
- Numerous Unverified Reports: Throughout history, tales of children raised by animals circulate, highlighting humanity’s enduring fascination with the boundaries between nature and nurture.
These cases, while distinct from the Tarzan narrative (which includes intelligence, literacy acquired via abandoned books, and leadership qualities), fueled the public’s imagination and made the idea of a human raised in the wild seem plausible, further bolstering the appeal of the Tarzan myth.
The Character of Tarzan: More Than Just a Wild Man
It’s crucial to understand that Tarzan is more than just a wild man. He is:
- An Aristocrat: He’s the orphaned heir to a British peerage, adding a layer of inherited privilege and inherent intellect to his character.
- Intelligent and Educable: Despite his upbringing, Tarzan learns to read and write through self-study, demonstrating remarkable cognitive abilities.
- A Leader and Protector: He becomes the protector of his ape tribe and later, a champion of justice and adventure.
These elements elevate Tarzan from a mere feral child to a more complex and compelling character, blurring the lines between nature and nurture and exploring themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery.
The Enduring Appeal of the Tarzan Myth
Why does the Tarzan myth continue to resonate today? Several factors contribute to its enduring appeal:
- Escape from Civilization: Tarzan offers an escape from the complexities and constraints of modern life, allowing readers and viewers to imagine a simpler, more primal existence.
- The Power of Nature: The story celebrates the power and beauty of nature, highlighting the importance of respecting the environment and living in harmony with the natural world.
- Self-Discovery and Identity: Tarzan’s journey of self-discovery, his struggle to reconcile his wild upbringing with his inherited nobility, resonates with anyone who has ever questioned their place in the world.
- Adventure and Romance: The story is filled with thrilling adventures, exotic locations, and a touch of romance, providing a captivating and entertaining escape.
Tarzan’s Impact on Popular Culture
Tarzan has had a profound impact on popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations in film, television, comics, and other media. From Johnny Weissmuller’s iconic portrayal to Disney’s animated adaptation, Tarzan remains a beloved and enduring figure. His image has been used in advertising, political commentary, and even scientific studies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarzan and His Origins
Is there any evidence that Edgar Rice Burroughs based Tarzan on a specific real person?
No, there is no credible evidence to suggest that Burroughs based Tarzan on a single, identifiable individual. While inspired by exploration narratives, literary archetypes, and reported cases of feral children, Tarzan is ultimately a fictional creation.
Did Edgar Rice Burroughs ever claim that Tarzan was based on a true story?
Burroughs never explicitly stated that Tarzan was based on a true story, but he did capitalize on the public’s fascination with Africa and the “wild man” archetype to promote his books. He understood the power of suggestion and the allure of the unknown.
Are there any real-life documented cases of children being raised by apes?
While numerous accounts exist of children living in proximity to animals, often dogs or livestock, there are no scientifically verified cases of a human child being raised entirely by apes. The social complexity and specific needs of ape societies would make such a scenario highly improbable.
What is the “noble savage” concept, and how does it relate to Tarzan?
The “noble savage” is a philosophical concept that idealizes humans in their natural state, suggesting that they are inherently good and uncorrupted by civilization. Tarzan embodies this concept to some extent, representing a primal innocence and connection to nature that is often lacking in “civilized” society.
How did European exploration of Africa influence the Tarzan story?
The European exploration of Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries fueled the public’s imagination with exotic landscapes, unknown tribes, and the perceived dangers of the jungle. Burroughs drew heavily on these images and narratives to create the setting and atmosphere of his Tarzan novels.
What are some of the ethical concerns surrounding the portrayal of Africa in Tarzan stories?
Many critics have pointed out that Tarzan stories often perpetuate colonial stereotypes about Africa and its inhabitants. The depiction of Africans as “primitive” or “savage” reinforces harmful and outdated views of the continent and its diverse cultures.
How has the character of Tarzan evolved over time in different adaptations?
Tarzan’s character has undergone significant transformations over the years. Some adaptations emphasize his animalistic instincts, while others focus on his aristocratic heritage and intellectual abilities. Modern adaptations often grapple with themes of colonialism and environmentalism.
Is it possible to learn a language from a book without a teacher, as Tarzan does?
While it’s possible to learn basic vocabulary and grammar from a book, achieving fluency without any interaction with native speakers would be extremely difficult. Tarzan’s linguistic abilities are largely a product of fiction, albeit a convenient one for the story.
What is Tarzan’s real name, according to the Edgar Rice Burroughs novels?
Tarzan’s birth name is John Clayton III, Viscount Greystoke. This aristocratic title adds another layer to his character, contrasting his wild upbringing with his inherited nobility.
Why is Tarzan often depicted swinging on vines, even though this is biologically unlikely?
The image of Tarzan swinging on vines, while largely a cinematic invention, has become iconic and synonymous with the character. It visually represents his freedom, agility, and connection to the jungle. While not biologically accurate for Great Apes, it’s become a crucial component of the Tarzan mythos.
What is the significance of Tarzan’s ape name, “Tarzan of the Apes”?
“Tarzan” in the ape language, as described by Burroughs, means “White Skin.” This name highlights Tarzan’s unique position as an outsider who is nonetheless accepted and integrated into the ape tribe. It further underlines his difference.
Has there ever been scientific research on children raised in isolation or with limited human contact?
Yes, studies on children raised in isolation, such as Genie Wiley, have provided valuable insights into the critical periods of language development and social cognition. These cases, though tragic, underscore the importance of early socialization and human interaction for healthy development, and highlight how is Tarzan based off a true story can be such a difficult question to pinpoint.