silhouette of a man with one eye open hiding in the jungle

The Most Dangerous Game

by Richard Edward Connell

Start Free Trial

Editor's Choice

How is Zaroff's character oxymoronic in "The Most Dangerous Game"?

Quick answer:

The answer above is correct.

Expert Answers

An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

In "The Most Dangerous Game," the character of Zaroff is ironic because he presents himself as the perfect gentleman. From the moment that Rainsford first enters his estate, which is decorated beautifully with exquisite art and furnishings, Zaroff treats him with only the utmost hospitality and civility. Zaroff is also extremely well-read and articulate, giving off the air of a well-educated aristocrat.

This, along with Zaroff's cool demeanor becomes clearly ironic when he is explaining the conditions of the game to Rainsford, who immediately sees him for what he is, a bloodthirsty savage and unhinged sociopath. Rainsford has descended to such a level of antisocial behavior that he can ruthlessly hunt his fellow man with no moral consequence. This, combined with his surface behavior, makes him a bit of an oxymoron.

Approved by eNotes Editorial
An illustration of the letter 'A' in a speech bubbles

Connell describes General Zaroff as having an aristocratic and cosmopolitan nature. Zaroff also has an affinity for the arts and the finer things in life, which is evident in his exquisitely decorated dining room. During a conversation with Rainsford, Zaroff says, "We do our best to preserve the amenities of civilization here. Please forgive any lapses" (Connell, 5). General Zaroff then reveals that he is well-read and enjoys reading hunting books from every corner of the world. Zaroff is also depicted as an articulate man, who is courteous and well-mannered. When Zaroff shows Rainsford how he has electricity on the island, Zaroff tells him, "We try to be civilized here" (Connell, 9). Despite all of General Zaroff's apparent civility, he is a ruthless murderer. General Zaroff is anything but civilized, as he hunts humans that are trapped on his island. Zaroff's appearance and manners would be considered oxymoronic when compared to his savage nature.

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Approved by eNotes Editorial