The Legend of Tarzan (2016) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The Legend of Tarzan takes place primarily in two contrasting locations: the lush rainforests of the Congo in Central Africa and the Victorian-era streets of London, England. The Congo serves as the main setting, featuring dense jungle landscapes, tribal territories, and the strategic colonial outpost of Boma. London represents the civilized world that John Clayton has adopted, providing the initial context for his life as an aristocrat before his return to Africa.

• congo
• london
• setting
• locations
• africa

The film is set in the late 19th century during the height of European imperialism in Africa. This era was marked by the Berlin Conference, which partitioned Africa among colonial powers, and the brutal exploitation of indigenous peoples under King Leopold II's rule. The time period establishes the historical context for the film's exploration of colonialism and its consequences.

• late 19th century
• imperialism
• historical era
• colonialism
• 1800s

The film presents colonialism as a dark and brutal force, depicting the exploitation of African people and resources by European powers. Through the character of Léon Rom and the Belgian colonial presence in Boma, the movie illustrates the ruthless pursuit of wealth and power that characterized this historical period. The narrative critiques the moral failings of colonizers and shows the devastating effects on native populations, making it a significant thematic element rather than just a backdrop.

• colonialism
• exploitation
• belgian
• king leopold
• africa

The theme explores John Clayton's internal conflict between his wild upbringing in the jungle as Tarzan and his adopted life in Victorian England as Lord Greystoke. This struggle represents a deeper quest for identity and belonging, highlighting the tension between primal instincts and social constraints. The film examines the allure and dangers of both worlds, showing that each offers unique strengths and limitations.

• nature
• civilization
• identity
• tarzan
• jungle
• london

John Clayton III, also known as Tarzan, is the protagonist who was raised by apes in the Congo jungle but later adopted the life of an English aristocrat. His core motivation stems from reconciling his dual identity, he struggles with where he truly belongs. Throughout the film, he must confront his past and embrace his primal nature to protect the people and land he cares about, ultimately choosing to embrace his Tarzan identity while maintaining his connection to civilization through his love for Jane.

• tarzan
• john clayton
• protagonist
• identity
• jungle

Jane Porter is Tarzan's love interest and a central character who embodies strength and resourcefulness. She is fully aware of the dangers around her but remains steadfast in her love for John. Her character represents feminine strength in a tumultuous setting, providing vital emotional support throughout their journey. The love story between John and Jane serves as a pillar of the narrative, testing their bond through danger and conflicts of loyalty while emphasizing love's power to overcome adversity.

• jane porter
• love interest
• romance
• strong female character

Léon Rom serves as the primary antagonist, a cunning and ruthless Belgian explorer who embodies the darker aspects of colonial ambition. He is tasked with securing diamonds and resources for his superiors, driving much of the film's conflict through his relentless pursuit of power and wealth. Rom represents exploitation and moral ambiguity within the colonial narrative, serving as a human embodiment of the brutal exploitation occurring during this historical period.

• leon rom
• antagonist
• villain
• belgian
• colonialism

George Washington Williams functions as the moral compass of the narrative, acting as an advocate for justice and human rights in the face of colonial oppression. He embodies the spirit of enlightenment and activism, constantly questioning the moral implications of colonial rule. His character illustrates themes of friendship and loyalty as he partners with John and Jane, providing crucial support in their mission while representing those who opposed colonial injustices.

• george washington williams
• moral compass
• justice
• activist

Boma is portrayed as a strategic military and administrative outpost in the Congo, serving as the base for Belgian colonial operations. Its significance lies in its role as the center of colonial exploitation in the region, where European powers consolidated their control over local populations and resources. The location becomes crucial to the plot as Tarzan must navigate this hostile territory to confront the colonial forces.

• boma
• congo
• colonial outpost
• belgian
• strategic location

While The Legend of Tarzan is a fictional story, it is set against the very real historical context of late 19th-century African colonialism. The film references the brutal era of King Leopold II's rule in the Congo Free State, which involved extensive exploitation, forced labor, and atrocities against local populations. This historical backdrop provides weight and relevance to the narrative, grounding the fictional adventure in real historical injustices.

• historical
• king leopold
• congo free state
• colonization
• real events

Opar is a legendary location in the Tarzan mythology referenced in the film, known for its fabled diamond mines. While not the primary setting, Opar adds to the lore surrounding Tarzan's world and connects to the historical legends associated with the character. Its mention reinforces the film's themes of colonial greed and the exploitation of African resources.

• opar
• diamonds
• legendary
• mines
• lore

Chief Mbonga is a complex character who represents the conflict between tribal loyalty and the burden of shared history with Tarzan. Initially appearing as an adversary, Mbonga embodies the tensions between indigenous populations and the colonial forces threatening their land. His character arc reflects themes of reconciliation and understanding, showing how past betrayals can be addressed when former enemies face common threats.

• chief mbonga
• tribal leader
• reconciliation
• conflict
• tribe