Chapter 11 – Tarzan Becomes a Beast Again delves into a significant moment in Tarzan’s life, showcasing his deep, instinctual connection to the jungle. The chapter opens with a tense situation where Werper, intending to harm Tarzan while he sleeps, hesitates at a critical moment, overwhelmed by the fear of the consequences. This hesitation proves to be a stroke of luck for Tarzan, as Werper flees into the night, fearing not only retribution from Tarzan but also the threat posed by the nearby lion. Tarzan remains unconscious, his keen instincts seemingly dulled from a blow to his head, until the lion’s approach rouses him. The roar of the jungle awakens Tarzan, pushing him back into the mindset of the beast he truly is, relying on raw instinct and survival.

As Tarzan rises, the jungle’s apex predator awakens in him, and he prepares himself for battle. However, the confrontation with the lion ends unexpectedly as the lion retreats, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of these wild creatures. Tarzan’s calm reaction after the lion’s departure highlights his understanding of the jungle’s dangers, showing that his survival is based not just on strength, but on knowing when to fight and when to let go. His detachment from the situation, especially regarding Werper’s treachery, shows his disinterest in human moral conflicts. For Tarzan, the jungle operates on a different set of rules—one of survival and instinct, not moral judgment or revenge. This moment emphasizes Tarzan’s deep-rooted connection to the primal world, which is free from human constraints.

The rest of the chapter portrays Tarzan as a creature completely in tune with the jungle’s rhythms and hierarchy. As he navigates the wilderness, he engages in various encounters, each one showcasing his dominance over the jungle’s creatures. Whether he is hunting a zebra, asserting his authority over a group of hyenas, or facing a standoff with a herd of buffalo, each interaction highlights his superiority within this ecosystem. His actions are guided by his instincts, demonstrating his seamless integration into the jungle’s natural order. The chapter also explores Tarzan’s evolving identity, one that moves further away from his past as Lord Greystoke and embraces his primal nature. He no longer identifies with human society, but rather with the jungle’s law of survival, allowing him to fully reconnect with his true self.

Throughout these encounters, Tarzan’s strength, agility, and deep understanding of the wild are on full display. His ability to fight and outsmart his opponents, including his encounter with a rhinoceros, reveals his combat readiness and quick reflexes. These moments of danger, mixed with instances of peace, paint a picture of Tarzan as a multifaceted character. He is torn between the world of man, which he was once a part of, and the jungle, which now defines his existence. Yet, despite this internal struggle, Tarzan is at peace with the life he now leads beneath the jungle canopy. His journey represents a seamless blending of both intellect and raw power, and his survival is a testament to his adaptation to the environment.

The narrative emphasizes the ongoing evolution of Tarzan’s character, showcasing him as more than just a man or a beast, but as a complex being who thrives in a world where survival is dictated by both instinct and intellect. His understanding of the jungle’s ways allows him to navigate challenges with both grace and ferocity. The chapter serves as a pivotal point in his journey, further solidifying his role as a protector of the jungle and its creatures, as well as a symbol of the untamed power of nature. As Tarzan continues to confront both the physical dangers of the wild and his evolving sense of self, the story reinforces the idea that he is more in tune with the jungle than he ever was with human society.