Tarzan of the Apes · Chapter
Tarzan of the Apes explained
The chapter introduces the infant Tarzan, born to Lord and Lady Greystoke on a remote African coast after a mutiny.
What happens
The chapter introduces the infant Tarzan, born to Lord and Lady Greystoke on a remote African coast after a mutiny. Following the death of his parents, the infant is adopted by the ape Kala, who raises him among the mangani apes. Tarzan grows up in the jungle, learning the ways of the wild and discovering his human heritage through his parents' cabin and books.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it delivers the emotional peak of relief and reunion after the pro…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Nature vs. Nurture
Tarzan's development as a human raised by apes explores the tension between innate human traits and environmental influences.
- Identity and Belonging
Tarzan's dual heritage as both human and ape-raised creates a central conflict of identity and belonging.
Characters to notice
- Tarzan
The infant son of Lord and Lady Greystoke, adopted by Kala and raised among the apes.
- Kala
The ape who adopts the infant Tarzan after his parents die.
- John Clayton
Lord Greystoke, Tarzan's father, who dies shortly after the infant's birth.
- Lady Alice
Tarzan's mother, who dies soon after giving birth.
- Kerchak
The leader of the ape tribe that adopts Tarzan.
Key passages
“Tarzan of the Apes”
The story of the ape-man Tarzan begins.
Opening of the novel establishing the protagonist.
