Kurtz is a fictional character from Joseph Conrad's novella, "Heart of Darkness." He is an ivory trader in the Congo River basin, representing the dark side of European colonialism. Kurtz is known for his charismatic personality and eloquent speeches, but he becomes increasingly unhinged as he immerses himself in the wilderness and the exploitation of the local people. Throughout the story, Kurtz embodies the moral ambiguity and corruption of imperialism. His famous last words, "The horror! The horror!" reflect his realization of the consequences of his actions and the darkness within humanity. His character serves as a critique of the destructive nature of colonialism and the loss of civilization.