Step into the thrilling world of John Carter of Mars, where swashbuckling adventure and alien civilizations collide on the red planet of Barsoom! Created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, this iconic science fiction series follows John Carter, a Civil War veteran mysteriously transported to Mars, where he battles warlords, woos a princess, and becomes a legend. With its blend of daring heroism, exotic cultures, and a vividly imagined world, the John Carter of Mars series has captivated readers for over a century.
From its pulp fiction roots to its lasting influence on sci-fi, this saga offers a timeless escape into a universe of bravery and wonder. Let’s explore how this extraordinary series came to be, its key stories, and why it continues to inspire.
How John Carter of Mars Began
In 1912, Edgar Rice Burroughs, a former pencil-sharpener salesman turned writer, introduced John Carter in the serialized story A Princess of Mars, published in All-Story Magazine. Inspired by the era’s fascination with astronomy and adventure, Burroughs crafted a tale of a war-torn Earth hero whisked to Mars, a dying planet teeming with strange creatures and warring tribes. His vivid imagination and knack for storytelling laid the foundation for a series that would span ten novels, blending science fiction with fantasy and romance.
Burroughs, also the creator of Tarzan, drew on his love for epic tales to shape Barsoom, a richly detailed world that felt both alien and relatable. The success of the first story sparked a saga that would define his career and influence generations of writers.
The Heart of John Carter of Mars
The series kicks off with A Princess of Mars, where John Carter awakens on Barsoom and meets Dejah Thoris, a Martian princess. His quest to save her from green-skinned Tharks and other perils sets the stage for a saga of love and valor. The Gods of Mars (1913) deepens the adventure, as Carter uncovers a sinister Martian religion and battles to protect his family. The Warlord of Mars (1914) sees him unite Barsoom’s tribes, cementing his legacy as a planetary hero. Later, Thuvia, Maid of Mars (1920) shifts focus to Carter’s son, Carthoris, expanding the saga’s scope.
Themes of heroism, loyalty, and cultural clash pulse through the series, set against Barsoom’s deserts, canals, and ancient cities. Burroughs’ brisk, action-packed style and inventive world-building—featuring telepathic aliens, flying ships, and radium-powered tech—create a sense of wonder. The series’ romantic core, especially Carter’s bond with Dejah Thoris, adds emotional depth, making it more than just a pulp adventure.
Barsoom itself is a character, a dying world where dwindling resources fuel conflict among red and green Martians, thoats, and other exotic beings. This vivid setting, paired with Carter’s fish-out-of-water perspective, makes the series a thrilling blend of escapism and social commentary.
Why John Carter of Mars Resonates
The John Carter of Mars series left an indelible mark on science fiction, inspiring authors like Ray Bradbury and filmmakers like George Lucas. Its bold mix of planetary adventure and heroic fantasy helped shape the space opera genre, while its imaginative depiction of Mars fueled scientific curiosity about the Red Planet. Fans cherish the series for its unapologetic sense of adventure and its ability to transport readers to a world where courage triumphs.
Despite a mixed 2012 film adaptation, the books remain a cult favorite, celebrated in fan communities and reprints. Their timeless appeal lies in their celebration of heroism and discovery, offering a thrilling escape for readers of all ages.
- First Published: 1912 (A Princess of Mars)
- Total Books: 10 novels, plus a collection of novellas
- Key Setting: Barsoom, a fictionalized Mars
- Notable Influence: Inspired sci-fi classics and NASA’s Mars exploration
Ready to embark on an interstellar adventure? Grab A Princess of Mars and dive into the epic world of John Carter of Mars, where heroes rise and Barsoom awaits!