Introduction to Tarzan and Jane’s Family Dynamics

One of the most enduring and beloved characters in literature and cinema is Tarzan, the man who grew up in the wilderness of Africa. Created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Tarzan's story has undergone numerous adaptations through books, films, and comics. A recurring theme in these adaptations is the concept of family, specifically the relationship between Tarzan and Jane and their offspring. This article explores the fictional history of Tarzan and Jane's sons, the challenges they faced, and how their family dynamics were depicted in various forms of media.

Original Novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs

Originally, in Edgar Rice Burroughs' The Jungle Princess, Tarzan and Jane do have a son named Robert John D'Artois III, often known as Korak. Korak is a central character in several of the later novels in the Tarzan series, such as The Son of Tarzan. However, in the film series featuring Johnny Weissmuller as Tarzan, a pivotal change was made to keep things simple for the audience: the character Boy, portrayed by Johnny Sheffield, was introduced as an adoptive son of Tarzan and Jane. This decision was mainly due to the censoring requirements and cultural norms of the time, which did not permit the depiction of an illegitimate child.

The Wondrous King: Korak and the Tarzan Films

Korak, as the son of Tarzan and Jane in the novels, held a significant place in the fan's imagination. In the original books, Korak was portrayed as a blend of humanity and jungle, embodying the qualities of his parents and the jungle's fauna. However, the films, in an effort to simplify complex family dynamics, often left Korak as a figure of absence or as a child who would not grow up to be a central character.

The Legacy of Boy: Edgar Rice Burroughs and Comics

The character of Boy was a significant presence in the film series, where he was portrayed by Johnny Sheffield. However, as the films became a bit dated and less popular with audiences, the creative team behind Dell comics introduced a new character named Boy. Interestingly, it was later revealed that the original character Korak and this new Boy were one and the same, with "Boy" being the nickname used by both characters. This revelation brought a fresh perspective to the fan's understanding of Tarzan and Jane's family history, blending the original and new stories together.

Tarzan and Jane: More Than Just a Father and Mother

Tarzan and Jane's relationship goes beyond just having a son. Their intricate story often revolves around their struggles, successes, and the impact they have on their surroundings. The most notable post-adoption is Tara Porter, the daughter of Tarzan and Jane from the novel Tarzan: Lord of the Apes. While Tara sometimes takes a backseat to the iconic duo, her presence in the Tarzan chronicles adds depth to the narrative and broadens the scope of the world Tarzan and Jane inhabit.

Modern Interpretations and Fan Creations

Contemporary interpretations of Tarzan and Jane continue to be rich with new characters and stories. For example, in the animated series Ever After High, Tara is immortalized as the Duchess of Darkmoor, a character that embodies the spirit of Tarzan and Jane's adventurous daughter. Similarly, artist Alphaoflight introduced the character Jillian, who is given up for adoption, further adding to the complex family dynamics and the story's emotional depth.

While the core relationship between Tarzan and Jane remains a constant, the additions, like Korak, Boy, and Tara, add layers to their story, making it both timeless and endlessly engaging. These characters reflect the enduring appeal of Edgar Rice Burroughs' creation, showing how a basic love story between a man and a woman in the wild can produce a wealth of fascinating and relatable narratives.