What does civilized mean? Civilized means to be well educated and knows their rights. Evidence from the story shows that Zaroff considers himself civilized, Rainsford considers Zaroff civilized, and Rainsford considers himself civilized. Initially most people will think Zaroff isn 't civilized but there is evidence in the story. On line fifty “oh yes,... I have electricity. We try to be civilized here”. Zaroff sees having all of the modern conveniences- such as electricity- as evidence that he can lead a civilized life no matter where he is. This statement supports the evidence that Zaroff considers himself civilized. The story has many place where you can see Zaroff being civilized. Prior to Rainsford thinks that Zaroff is civilized. If Zaroff