“A Princess of Mars” by Edgar Rice Burroughs, published in 1912, is the first book in the Barsoom series. This pioneering science fiction novel transports readers to the planet Mars (known as Barsoom to its inhabitants) and follows the extraordinary adventures of John Carter, a Confederate veteran of the American Civil War. The story blends elements of romance, fantasy, and adventure, offering a richly imagined world filled with alien species, epic battles, and a captivating love story.
Comprehensive Plot Summary
John Carter, a seasoned soldier and adventurer, begins his tale by recounting his mysterious longevity and his travels to Mars. Following the Civil War, Carter finds himself in Arizona, prospecting for gold. A series of encounters with Apaches leads him to take refuge in a mysterious cave, where he loses consciousness and awakens on Mars, transported there through unknown means.
On Mars, Carter discovers that he possesses superhuman strength and agility due to the planet’s lower gravity. He soon encounters the Tharks, a race of green Martians who are fierce, warlike, and towering in stature. Captured by the Tharks, Carter befriends Tars Tarkas, a Thark chieftain with a more compassionate side than his peers. Through his combat prowess and strategic mind, Carter earns respect among the Tharks and learns their language and customs.
Carter’s journey takes a pivotal turn when he meets Dejah Thoris, the beautiful princess of Helium, a city-state of the red Martians. Dejah Thoris has been captured by the Tharks, and Carter becomes determined to protect her and return her to her people. Despite cultural differences and initial distrust, Carter and Dejah Thoris develop a deep bond and fall in love.
Carter’s journey to rescue Dejah Thoris and aid Helium is fraught with peril and intrigue. He navigates the complex political landscape of Barsoom, encountering various Martian species and city-states, each with its own alliances and enmities. Along the way, Carter demonstrates his leadership and combat skills, gaining allies and confronting enemies in thrilling battles.
In the Thark city, Carter impresses the green Martians with his extraordinary abilities and fierce determination. He becomes a respected figure among them, even as he plans his escape. Tars Tarkas, recognizing Carter’s unique qualities, becomes an ally. Together with Sola, a kind-hearted Thark woman, they form a plan to flee the city with Dejah Thoris.
Their escape is a daring endeavor. They face numerous obstacles, including the treacherous Zodanga, an enemy city-state of Helium. As they make their way through the harsh Martian landscape, they encounter various perils, including hostile Tharks and the deadly fauna of Mars. Carter’s ingenuity and combat skills are tested to their limits as he protects Dejah Thoris and Sola.
Throughout their journey, Carter and Dejah Thoris grow closer, their bond deepening with each passing day. Dejah Thoris, initially wary of Carter, comes to see him as a true hero, while Carter is captivated by her beauty, intelligence, and courage. Their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a world in turmoil, adding a poignant dimension to their adventure.
As they approach Helium, they learn that the city is under siege by Zodanga. Carter realizes that his mission is not just to rescue Dejah Thoris but also to save her city. He leads a daring assault on the Zodangan forces, rallying the Tharks to his side. The battle is fierce and bloody, but Carter’s leadership and bravery turn the tide in favor of Helium.
In the climactic battle, Carter faces off against the Zodangan leader, Sab Than. The duel is intense, showcasing Carter’s superior combat skills and determination. With Sab Than defeated, the Zodangan forces retreat, and Helium is saved. The people of Helium hail Carter as a hero, and Dejah Thoris acknowledges her love for him in a public declaration.
However, their victory is short-lived. As Carter and Dejah Thoris plan their future together, they face a new threat from within Helium. A faction within the city, dissatisfied with the peace and Carter’s influence, plots to overthrow Tardos Mors, the Jeddak (king) of Helium. Carter uncovers the conspiracy and fights to protect Dejah Thoris and her grandfather from treachery.
In a desperate bid to save Helium, Carter takes to the skies in a stolen Zodangan airship. He battles the conspirators in a thrilling aerial combat, showcasing his piloting skills and bravery. The skies of Barsoom are filled with the sounds of battle as Carter fights to defend Helium from internal and external threats.
The climax reaches a fever pitch as Carter boards the enemy flagship, confronting the traitorous leaders. In a final, desperate struggle, Carter defeats the conspirators, ensuring the safety of Helium and solidifying his place as a hero of Barsoom. Dejah Thoris, watching from the ground, realizes the depth of her love for Carter and the sacrifices he is willing to make for her and her people.
As peace returns to Helium, Carter and Dejah Thoris are finally united. Their love, forged in the fires of battle and adversity, stands as a testament to the power of courage and devotion. Carter’s adventures on Mars have transformed him from a soldier seeking fortune to a hero of a distant world, beloved by the people of Helium and Barsoom.
Just as Carter begins to envision a future with Dejah Thoris on Mars, he is mysteriously transported back to Earth. He awakens in the same cave in Arizona where his journey began, his heart heavy with longing for the world he has left behind and the woman he loves. Despite his return to Earth, Carter’s thoughts remain with Dejah Thoris and Barsoom, and he vows to find a way back to Mars.
Carter’s tale sets the stage for further adventures as he seeks to return to Mars and reunite with Dejah Thoris. His longing for Barsoom and the promise of new challenges and discoveries drive him to continue his quest, leaving readers eager to follow his next journey across the red planet.
Main Characters
- John Carter: A brave and honorable Confederate veteran with exceptional combat skills and a strong sense of justice. His superhuman abilities on Mars make him a formidable hero.
- Dejah Thoris: The beautiful and intelligent princess of Helium, who embodies the ideals of courage and loyalty. Her love for John Carter is central to the story.
- Tars Tarkas: A Thark chieftain who befriends John Carter. Despite his warrior nature, he shows compassion and wisdom, making him a pivotal ally.
- Sola: A kind and gentle Thark woman who aids John Carter and Dejah Thoris. Her loyalty and courage are vital to their survival.
Themes and Motifs
- Heroism and Honor: The novel explores the concept of heroism through John Carter’s actions, emphasizing bravery, honor, and the willingness to fight for justice and love.
- Cultural Differences and Unity: The diverse races of Barsoom highlight themes of cultural conflict and the potential for unity through understanding and cooperation.
- Love and Sacrifice: The love story between John Carter and Dejah Thoris underscores the themes of devotion and the sacrifices one is willing to make for love.
- Adventure and Exploration: The novel celebrates the spirit of adventure and the human desire to explore unknown worlds and face new challenges.
Writing Style and Tone
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s writing style in “A Princess of Mars” is characterized by vivid descriptions, fast-paced action, and imaginative world-building. His narrative technique, which combines first-person and third-person perspectives, allows readers to connect deeply with John Carter’s character while experiencing the grandeur of Barsoom.
The tone is adventurous and romantic, capturing the excitement of exploration and the intensity of the characters’ emotions. Burroughs’s ability to create a richly detailed and exotic world, filled with diverse cultures and landscapes, makes “A Princess of Mars” a timeless classic in the science fiction genre.
If this summary has sparked your interest, we would appreciate you subscribing to our newsletter.
There’s a treasure trove of other fascinating book summaries waiting for you. Check out our collection of stories that inspire, thrill, and provoke thought, just like this one by clicking here.
If you want to request a book summary, click here.
When Saurabh is not working/watching movies/reading books/traveling, you can reach him via Twitter/X, or LinkedIn.
Restart reading!
