1. Confronting his own morality and the darkness within:
* Marlow's initial idealism is challenged: Marlow embarks on the journey to the Congo with a romantic notion of "civilizing" the natives. However, he witnesses the brutality and exploitation of the colonial regime, forcing him to confront the hypocrisy of his own civilization and the inherent darkness within humanity. He grapples with the realization that he, like Kurtz, is capable of cruelty and savagery.
* The fascination with Kurtz: Marlow becomes strangely captivated by Kurtz, the ivory trader who has descended into madness and savagery. Marlow's fascination reflects his own internal struggle, a desire for a deeper meaning in a world seemingly devoid of it, even if it means embracing darkness.
* The "horror" of the journey: Marlow's physical and mental journey into the Congo is a metaphorical descent into the depths of his own soul. He experiences fear, isolation, and a sense of being lost, which symbolizes his struggle with his own inner demons.
2. His struggle with the idea of redemption:
* The weight of Kurtz's legacy: Marlow feels responsible for Kurtz's fate, even though he had no direct hand in his actions. He grapples with the possibility of redemption, attempting to preserve Kurtz's image by presenting him as a tragic hero, even though he knows the truth.
* The final speech about Kurtz: Marlow's concluding speech about Kurtz is a profound meditation on human nature, acknowledging the inherent capacity for both good and evil. He struggles to find meaning in the darkness, ultimately suggesting that even in the face of despair, we can strive for compassion and understanding.
3. The conflict between his personal beliefs and the reality of the world:
* The disillusionment with colonial ideals: Marlow's journey challenges his initial beliefs about colonialism and its ability to "civilize" the natives. He recognizes the hypocrisy and exploitation at the heart of the colonial enterprise, forcing him to question the values he was raised with.
* The search for meaning: The novella reflects Marlow's search for meaning in a world that appears chaotic and morally ambiguous. He grapples with the question of human nature, the existence of good and evil, and the role of civilization in a world where darkness seems to prevail.
In conclusion, the "man vs self" conflict in *Heart of Darkness* is not just a personal struggle for Marlow; it's a larger exploration of human nature and the universal themes of morality, redemption, and the enduring power of darkness. It leaves the reader with unsettling questions about the nature of civilization, the limits of human understanding, and the profound impact of our actions on ourselves and the world around us.