Kurtz is described as an extraordinary and remarkable man who is in charge of an important ivory trading post. He is seen as a genius and a great success. However, others note that Kurtz has become increasingly ruthless and dangerous in his pursuit of ivory. Kurtz appears to have given into his darker impulses and lusts in the jungle. In his final moments, Kurtz begs to be saved, but it is unclear if he is asking to be saved physically or ideologically. His true character and motives remain ambiguous.