O'Connell: The Planet of the Apes

Limbo and Thade

A big duality in The Planet of the Apes was the theme of science vs. primitivism. Even though apes have become the dominant species on this planet they are still far behind technologically. They use old fashioned forms of warfare with spears and armor. The technology that the humans possess, such as Davidson’s gun, strike fear in the apes. One ape goes as far to call it “sorcery.”

                One important scene that illustrates this is when Thade’s father educated him on how intelligent humans can actually be. He tells Thade to destroy the red vase in his room only to reveal a gun that was invented by the humans. Thade’s father explains to Thade that this is a symbol of how destructive humans can be. Thade, who already loathes all humans, hates them even more after his Father shows him their modern weaponry. This shows the technological gap between apes and humans. The apes use a form of medieval warfare, equipped with spears and horses. The gun shines even more negative light on humans because Thade thought they were worthless before, but not he knows that they can be dangerous.

                Another scene that shows this duality is when Davidson goes back to the crash site to retrieve his gun. He retrieves it because it is the only means of defense against the apes. This is also the first time Ari and Krull ever see a device like this. Even on their escape together they still remain ignorant of what humans are capable of. When Davidson first shoots it, Krull calls it “sorcery.” This is shows how the apes will simply dismiss something that they don’t understand. The gun obviously scares both Ari and Krull and eventually leads Krull to destroying the gun all together. Afterwards Ari asks “Who would invent such a terrible thing?” (Or something along those lines)The apes are still totally in the dark because their faith in their religion and lack of knowledge hinders them. They are unwilling to accept something that contradicts their religion.  Krull destroys it because he considers it evil and that they would be better without it. However, he doesn’t understand that it is the only thing that can defend against the ape onslaught.