While Heart of darkness and Apocalypse Now share the brood theme of insanity emerging from the darkness, themes that exist in one don't necessarily exist in the other. The darkness that engulfs Kurtz exists in both of the pieces. This darkness allows a once civilized, successful man to release all moral judgment and exist much like a savage. While much of the darkness emerges in Heart of Darkness due to imperialism, Apocalypse Now embodies a similar situation, but caused by war. In both pieces, Willard and Marlow came to understand and gain respect for Kurtz although his methods are uncivilized. This theme of darkness also exists as an uplifting force, changing Willard and Marlow's understand of civilization.

In Heart of Darkness, Kurtz's disintegration from the civilized world is the embodiment of darkness. Desiring money and power, Kurtz journeyed into Africa. His upbringing in civilized European society served as...