Question

What does Zaroff say to show that he places little value on human life?

Answer 1

As the narrative opens, Rainsford and Whitney are discussing Ship-Trap Island, approaching in the dark distance. Rainsford strains to see the mysterious place, but cannot, while Whitney relates how the sailors feel about the island. 

Answer 2

Zaroff values human life differently than most people. Without human life, he wouldn't have his ultimate prey to hunt. But that is the extent of the value that Zaroff places on human life. To Zaroff, a human isn't that much different than any other animal species that he hunts. Zaroff states that the one thing that humans possess that no other animal does is the ability to reason.


Hope this helps.