The narrative follows a lion named Numa, who is driven by hunger as he stalks prey near a drinking pool frequented by various animals. His initial target is a zebra named Pacco, but the lion's stealth is thwarted when the zebra herd senses danger and flees. Frustrated, Numa's hunger intensifies, leading him to a tribe of apes led by Kerchak. Despite typically avoiding confrontation with the powerful apes, Numa's desperation compels him to attack, capturing a mother ape named Mamka. Tarzan, a young human raised by the apes, witnesses the attack and is filled with a sense of duty to protect his adoptive family. He rallies the apes to confront Numa, throwing sticks and rocks to distract the lion and prevent him from feeding on Mamka. The apes, initially hesitant, follow Tarzan's lead, and together they harass Numa, who is forced to abandon his kill. As the story progresses, Tarzan devises a plan to retrieve Mamka's body from Numa. He enlists the help of Taug, a strong ape, to distract the lion while he makes a daring move to reclaim the carcass. The plan succeeds, and Tarzan escapes with the body, leaving Numa enraged and hungry. The narrative explores themes of survival, the instinctual behaviors of animals, and the developing bond between Tarzan and the apes. Tarzan's cleverness and bravery are highlighted as he navigates the dangers of the jungle, ultimately teaching the apes the importance of vigilance against predators. The story culminates in a deeper understanding of the dynamics between species in the wild, showcasing Tarzan's unique position as a bridge between the human and animal worlds.
By Edgar Rice Burroughs · First published 1914 · Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Action