OVO

Some of the writing in this book is poor, and some of it has not aged well. There’s nothing to do but state so plainly and up front. But.

Tarzan of the Apes contains one set of answers for some important questions. What is natural for men? What does civilization offer us, and what does it take away? How do we relate to others who are weaker than us? Who is fit to rule, how do they aquire and keep their position? Tarzan of the Apes also contains some fine fighting, between man and beast and between men. Tarzan acts in accordance with Nature. Tarzan doesn’t have any religion or politics. When it is time to follow, he follows. When it is time to lead, he leads. When it is time to kill, he kills. No remorse, guilt, second-guessing, shame, anger – just doing what is Natural. Sometimes Tarzan takes what he wants, and the fact of his ability to do so is the justification for having done so. This, the first of many Tarzan books, is my favorite in the series.

Tarzan of the Apes.
Tarzan of the Apes annoted by Kenneth Fuchs.
Wikipedia entry.
Edgar Rice Burroughs Inc.