The Heart of Darkness: Two Revolving Desires In the novel Heart of Darkness, by Joseph Conrad, two characters can be defined as main characters. The two characters are Charles Marlow and Kurtz. Usually a novel contains only one main character. Marlow has a leading role as a man reminiscing on his past journey to Africa. Kurtz is Marlow's mission. They both present essential roles to the novel. Both Marlow and Kurtz can be defined as the main character. Charles Marlow is part of the main focus in Heart of Darkness. Marlow's story is what makes Heart of Darkness complete. The novel is about Marlo