Decoding the Gorilla in Tarzan: Myth vs. Reality
When discussing the film franchise of Tarzan, many assume that the gorilla named Cheeta is the same iconic animal found in the original novel series by Edgar Rice Burroughs. This article aims to clarify the differences between the original stories and the films, focusing on the names and roles of the gorillas in both mediums.
Edgar Rice Burroughs' World: Gorillas in the Ape Language
Edgar Rice Burroughs, in his Tarzan novels, paints a vivid picture of the jungle, where gorillas are the undisputed rulers, albeit in their own language. According to the original texts, gorillas communicate in 'Bolgani,' a language specific to apes and only understood by other apes. This distinction is significant, as it clearly differentiates between the fictional gorillas in Burroughs' world and real gorillas.
Bengali, the ape language, is not a widely recognized or documented language. It is more of a concept or a literary device used to emphasize the communication style of the apes. The existence of this language in the original Tarzan novels showcases the author's rich imagination and his efforts to create a distinct and believable world for the audience.
Disney's Interpretation: Mangani Gorillas
When the Disney films brought Tarzan to life, the portrayal of the gorillas took a different turn. The films feature a distinct species called 'Mangani.' In the movies, well-known gorillas include Kerchak, Kala, Terkeena, Flynt, and Mungo. Interestingly, none of these names align with the gorillas in the original Burroughs novels, highlighting the divergence between the original and contemporary interpretations.
The Mangani name is an interesting choice, as it is derived from the Swahili word 'mangani,' meaning 'wild' or 'daring.' This choice for the gorillas' name is consistent with the movie's portrayal of these apes as fierce and formidable creatures, setting them apart from the more milder characters in the novels. The Mangani species in the movie is a fictional creation, designed to better suit the visual and narrative elements of Disney's storytelling.
The Chimp Misconception: Nkima the Monkey
A common misconception persists among many moviegoers is that Cheeta (a name similar to "chimpanzee") is a chimpanzee or a gorilla in the film series. However, the films present Nkima as the monkey named in the books, who first appears in "Tarzan and the Lost Empire," the twelfth novel in the series. Nkima is a mischievous and intelligent monkey who becomes a companion to Tarzan, further clarifying that the name Cheeta is not a gorilla but a chimp.
The character Nkima, played by Sarah Natochenny in the 1999 Disney animated film, stands as a loyal animal companion to Tarzan, embodying the intelligence and playfulness associated with the monkey species. Her portrayal adds another layer of realism to the film, complementing the more fantastical aspects of the Mangani gorillas.
Conclusion
The depiction of gorillas in the Tarzan series showcases a rich tapestry of literary and cinematic creativity. While the original novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs feature gorillas in their Bengali language, the Disney adaptations have created a distinct species, the Mangani. This differentiation not only highlights the evolution of storytelling techniques but also emphasizes the rich world-building that both authors have accomplished. Understanding these distinctions can provide deeper insights into the characters and worlds of Tarzan.