Heart of Darkness - Capitalism or Moral Enlightenment Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness is about a sailor named Charlie Marlow and an experience he had as a young man. Early in the novel it becomes apparent that there is great tension in Marlow's mind about whether he should profit from the immoral actions of the company he works for, which is involved in the ivory trade in Africa. Marlow believes that society ignores the tension between moral enlightenment and capitalism. The dehumanization of its workers, evident so early on to Marlow, seems to be unknown to the other members of the Company's management. In this story Marlow's aunt represents capitalism. Her efforts to get him a job are significant because of the morally compromising nature of the job of which she seems totally ignorant. When Marlow expresses doubt about the nature of the work, she replies, “You forget, dear Charlie, that the workman is worthy of his wages” (12). It is clear that Marlow has mixed feelings about the whole idea. At one point, trying to justify his actions to himself, he says: “You understand that it was a continental concern, that Trading Society; but I have many connections on the living continent, because it is cheap and not as bad as it seems” (12). Ultimately, however, Marlow accepts the job and is told that the pain and unusually harsh treatment to which the workers are subjected is minimal. During the tests and prescriptions he must undergo before entering the jungle Marlow feels treated like a whim. The doctor measures his head and asks him questions like: “Has there ever been madness in your family” (15)? In this part of the story Marlow is made to feel small and unimportant. Any feelings or concerns he harbors are not important to the company, and as a result, he feels alone. It is logical that Marlow rethought his decision and felt some kinship with the other (black) workers who are exploited, but he does not reveal such understanding. Arriving at his destination in Africa, Marlow discovers that things are going well. the same. The moment he is denied rest after walking twenty miles, he understands that things will not change. Marlow then talks about how disease and death are spreading throughout the area, and the company does nothing in terms of prevention other than to promote those who remain alive..