This is a central question that the text demands us to ask
ourselves. The character of Zaroff seems to be deliberately problematic in the way that
he has every appearance of being highly civilised and sophisticated, yet at the same
time holds such abominable views that allow him to justify murder in his own mind. From
his first introduction, Zaroff is said to speak in a "cultivated voice." He has created
a setting that has all the amenities of civilisation, in spite of its remote location,
as the following description makes clear:
The dining room to which Ivan conducted him was
in many ways remarkable. There was a medieval magnificence about it; it suggested a
baronial hall of feudal times, with its oaken panels, its high ceiling, its vast
refectory table where two-score men could sit down to
eat.
Thus, in his accent,
appearance, setting and the way in which he is able to engage Rainsford in intelligent
conversation, Zaroff is most definitely civilised. However, in one crucial area, he most
definitely is not. His own philosophy of the world, that argues "life is for the strong,
to be lived by the strong, and if need be, taken by the strong" presents him as a
cold-blooded killer. I am reminded of Nazi Generals who had a real appreciation for the
arts yet at the same time killed thousands of Jews in terrifying ways. Therefore, above
all, although Zaroff is civilised in his appearance and character, his attitude clearly
presents him as uncivilised.
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