Tarzan facts for kids
Tarzan is a very famous fictional character who lives in the jungle. He was created by the American writer Edgar Rice Burroughs. Tarzan first appeared in a book called Tarzan of the Apes in 1914. In the story, Tarzan's parents, who were English nobles, were left stranded in the African jungle. After his parents died, baby Tarzan was found and raised by a group of large apes. He grew up learning to survive in the wild. Over the years, Tarzan has become popular in many different media, including movies, movie serials, comic books, and TV shows.
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Who is Tarzan?
Tarzan is known for his amazing strength and agility. He can swing through trees using vines and communicate with animals. He often wears a simple loincloth. Even though he was raised by apes, he later learns about human society and his true identity. His adventures often involve protecting the jungle and its creatures from danger.
Tarzan's Early Life
Tarzan's real name is John Clayton III, and he is the son of Lord Greystoke. When he was a baby, his parents were shipwrecked on the coast of Africa. They built a small cabin, but soon after, his parents died. A female ape named Kala found the baby and adopted him. She raised him as her own child among the apes. He learned to hunt, climb, and survive in the harsh jungle environment.
Meeting Other Humans
As Tarzan grew up, he eventually met other humans. One of the most important people he met was a young American woman named Jane Porter. He fell in love with Jane, and she helped him learn to speak English and understand human customs. Their love story is a big part of the Tarzan adventures.
Tarzan in Books and Movies
Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote many books about Tarzan's adventures. These books tell stories of his life in the jungle, his fights against villains, and his efforts to protect nature.
Tarzan on the Big Screen
Tarzan quickly became popular in movies. The first Tarzan film was made in 1918. Many actors have played Tarzan over the years. Some of the most famous include Johnny Weissmuller, who was an Olympic swimmer. He played Tarzan in many movies from the 1930s to the 1940s. These movies often showed Tarzan's famous jungle yell and his bond with his chimpanzee friend, Cheeta.
Tarzan in Comics and TV
Besides books and movies, Tarzan has also appeared in comic books and TV shows. These adaptations have introduced Tarzan to new generations of fans. They continue to explore his adventures and his role as a protector of the wild.
Why is Tarzan Important?
Tarzan is more than just an adventure hero. He represents a connection between humans and nature. His stories often highlight themes of conservation and respecting the environment. He shows that even someone raised outside of human society can be noble and brave. Tarzan's tales remind us of the beauty and dangers of the wild.
Images for kids
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Illustration by J. Allen St. John for Tarzan and the Golden Lion by Edgar Rice Burroughs
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Tarzan walking, in this display from an Ankara amusement park.
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Australian Travis Fimmel (pictured 2015) briefly portrayed Tarzan on television
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Tarzan, the Broadway musical at the Richard Rodgers Theatre
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Clumma tarzan in Madagascar
See also
In Spanish: Tarzán para niños
