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Cover of The Return of Tarzan

The Return of Tarzan

Written by Edgar Rice Burroughs

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Adventure storiesFantasy fictionTarzan (Fictitious character)

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About this book

"The Return of Tarzan" by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows the iconic character Tarzan, who grapples with his identity and existence as a man raised in the jungle, torn between his savage upbringing and the allure of civilized life. The narrative begins with his return to Europe, where he encounters new threats and rekindles complex relationships, particularly with the Countess de Coude. The opening of the book introduces the passengers aboard a liner heading from New York to Europe, focusing initially on Countess Olga de Coude and her husband. Tarzan is immediately introduced as an enigmatic figure who captures the countess's attention, which sets the stage for intrigue. As the story unfolds, we see Tarzan confront devious characters who attempt to ensnare him in a web of deception and treachery, including a card cheating incident on the ship that leads to a confrontation. Tarzan's internal struggle with his past and his moral compass becomes increasingly apparent against the backdrop of social manipulation and looming danger, foreshadowing the action and adventure to come.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Return of Tarzan, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • adventurous
  • romantic
  • intriguing

Edgar Rice Burroughs's "The Return of Tarzan" plunges the ape-man back into the complexities of civilization, where he grapples with his dual identity as Lord Greystoke and the wild Tarzan. The narrative follows his journey from Europe to Africa, entangled in a web of espionage, mistaken identity, and treacherous plots orchestrated by his arch-nemeses, Nikolas Rokoff and Alexis Paulvitch. Driven by the memory of Jane Porter and a yearning for belonging, Tarzan navigates both the sophisticated dangers of society and the primal challenges of the jungle, ultimately reaffirming his unique moral code and untamed spirit. The story is a relentless adventure, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the perennial conflict between natural instinct and societal norms, all while setting the stage for further exploits.

“"He was Tarzan of the Apes, and he had come home."”

Key themes

Civilization vs. Savagery
This is the core philosophical conflict of the Tarzan series. The novel constantly contrasts the perceived sophistication of European society with the raw, brutal, yet often more honest and just, world of the African jungle. Tarzan finds human society rife with hypocrisy, deception, and greed, while the jungle, despite its dangers, offers a clearer moral code and true freedom.
Identity and Belonging
Tarzan's perpetual struggle to reconcile his birthright as Lord Greystoke with his upbringing as Tarzan of the Apes. He constantly questions where he truly belongs and which identity defines him. This search for self is complicated by his love for Jane and his desire to fit into her world, while simultaneously feeling an irresistible pull back to the wild.
Love and Loyalty
Tarzan's unwavering love for Jane Porter is a central motivating force throughout the novel. Despite believing her lost or married, his loyalty to her memory drives many of his actions. This theme also extends to his loyalty to his few trusted friends (like Mugambi) and his fierce protectiveness of those he deems worthy.

Worth discussing

How does Tarzan's internal conflict between his 'civilized' and 'savage' identities reflect broader societal tensions of the early 20th century?

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