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Abstract
Conrad's literary ventures before the publication of Heart of Darkness dealt with man's relationship with others. But in Heart of Darkness, he focuses his attention on man in relation to his own self. A preoccupation with the self inevitably takes precedence over commitment to others; Conrad explores the dark interiors of the self and expresses his concerns for the humanitarian crisis in terms of character. Heart of Darkness presents the most exhaustive efforts to extend and deepen the significance of his existential themes. In the course of the study, existential crises like individual freedom, isolation, anxiety, authenticity and choices become evident testimonials of existential philosophy. Heart of Darkness shows Conrad's endeavour to render some force which exists not only outside, but also inside - a force which will ultimately constitute a threat to his character's physical equilibrium.