Original Novel Timeline
Edgar Rice Burroughs’ original Tarzan of the Apes was first serialized in 1912 and published as a book in 1914. The story is set in the late 19th century, roughly in the 1880s to early 1890s. Tarzan is born in the coastal jungle of equatorial Africa, and the narrative follows his upbringing among apes and later encounters with Europeans. The period reflects colonial-era exploration and adventure storytelling conventions of that time.
Key Film and Television Adaptations
Film and television versions of Tarzan often adjust the time period to fit modern sensibilities or production contexts. While many classic adaptations remain in a Victorian-era backdrop, some place stories in the early 20th century or closer to their release dates. Below is a quick reference table of notable adaptations and their settings.
| Adaptation | Setting Year or Period | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Tarzan of the Apes (novel) | 1880s–1890s | Literary |
| Tarzan (1999 animated film) | Early 1900s | Disney film |
| Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan (1984) | Late 19th century | Film |
| Tarzan (1966 TV series) | Contemporary for the 1960s | Television |
| The Legend of Tarzan (2016 film) | 1980s | Film |
Common Setting Periods
Most Tarzan stories default to the late 1800s, aligning with the age of exploration and imperial interests. This era supports themes of discovery, colonial encounters, and exoticism. Later adaptations sometimes shift forward to the early 1900s or even the mid-20th century, especially when incorporating technology or changes in social contexts. Yet the core identity of Tarzan remains rooted in the imagined past of African jungles and Victorian adventure.
Context and Background
Burroughs’ tales emerged during an era when adventure fiction often portrayed far-off lands as mysterious and untamed. The late Victorian setting allows for dramatic encounters between civilization and the wilderness. As the character evolved across media, the backdrop often shifted slightly, but the essence of a timeless, pre-modern jungle persisted.
Notable Details in Adaptations
Certain adaptations make deliberate choices about when the story takes place, which influences costume design, technology, and cultural references. For example, a 1999 animated film opts for an early 1900s feel, while a 1984 prestige film emphasizes late 19th-century aesthetics. These decisions affect how audiences perceive Tarzan’s world, balancing familiarity with escapism.
Summary of Key Periods
- Primary literary setting: 1880s–1890s
- Classic film interpretations: Late 19th century to early 20th century
- Modern reimaginings: Vary, sometimes contemporary to release date
Ultimately, the question “what year is Tarzan set in” depends on the specific version being referenced, though the archetypal backdrop remains the late 1800s.
