Overview of Edgar Rice Burroughs's Literary Legacy
Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875–1950) was an American author whose storytelling prowess earned him a lasting place in literary history. His career began with the publication of the first Tarzan novel, Tarzan of the Apes, in 1912, which instantly became a bestseller and launched a franchise that continues to thrive today. Burroughs’s ability to craft vivid worlds and compelling heroes established a template for adventure fiction and influenced countless writers.
His books are characterized by:
- Exciting adventure narratives set in exotic locations or distant planets
- Strong, charismatic protagonists
- Richly detailed worlds and cultures
- Innovative blending of science fiction and fantasy elements
The prolific nature of his work produced numerous series and standalone novels, many of which remain popular in modern adaptations, including movies, comics, and video games.
Major Series and Notable Books by Edgar Rice Burroughs
Burroughs's literary output is primarily organized into several major series, each set in distinct worlds and featuring memorable characters. Here’s a detailed look at his most significant works.
The Tarzan Series
Arguably Burroughs’s most famous creation, the Tarzan series chronicles the adventures of the eponymous jungle hero, a man raised by apes in the African jungle.
- Tarzan of the Apes (1912): The inaugural novel introduces John Clayton, Lord Greystoke, who is orphaned in Africa and raised by a tribe of great apes. The story follows his discovery of civilization and his struggle to reconcile his jungle origins with human society.
- The Return of Tarzan (1913): Tarzan returns to Africa, facing new challenges and uncovering secrets of his past.
- Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar (1916): An adventure involving lost civilizations and hidden treasures.
- Other notable titles include Tarzan and the Lost Empire, Tarzan and the City of Gold, and Tarzan and the Iron Crowns.
Features of the Tarzan series:
- Explores themes of nature versus civilization
- Introduces a hero embodying strength, morality, and adaptability
- Set against lush, detailed African landscapes
The John Carter of Mars Series (Barsoom Series)
This series transports readers to the planet Mars (called Barsoom by its inhabitants), where a world of ancient civilizations, strange creatures, and heroic conflicts unfolds.
- A Princess of Mars (1912): The debut novel where Civil War veteran John Carter is mysteriously transported to Mars and becomes embroiled in the planet’s conflicts.
- The Gods of Mars (1913): Continues Carter’s adventures amid Martian gods and warring tribes.
- The Warlord of Mars (1914): Explores themes of tyranny, love, and heroism as Carter battles to save Mars’s oppressed inhabitants.
- Additional books include Thuvia of Mars, The Chessmen of Mars, and Llana of Gathol.
Key features:
- Blends adventure, science fiction, and fantasy
- Features alien cultures, fantastical creatures, and advanced technology
- Centers on themes of heroism, love, and justice
The Pellucidar Series
Set in a mysterious hollow Earth, the Pellucidar series explores a prehistoric world beneath the Earth's surface, inhabited by dinosaurs, primitive tribes, and ancient civilizations.
- Pellucidar (1915): Follows David Innes’s journey into the subterranean world and his efforts to unite its diverse inhabitants against threats.
- Followed by At the Earth's Core (1922), which introduces the core concept of the series, and other titles like Tanar of Pellucidar.
Highlights:
- Unique setting of a world inside the Earth
- Includes imaginative creatures like Mahars and giant reptiles
- Themes of exploration and survival
Other Notable Works and Standalone Novels
Beyond his major series, Burroughs authored several standalone novels and lesser-known works that showcase his versatility.
- The Moon Men (1926): An adventure set in a future where humanity faces alien threats and societal upheaval.
- The Outlaw of Torn (1927): A historical adventure set in medieval England.
- The Lost Continent (1932): An exploration of lost civilizations on a mysterious island.
- He also wrote numerous short stories, some of which were later incorporated into his series or adapted into other media.
Themes and Influences in Edgar Rice Burroughs’s Books
Burroughs’s stories are renowned not only for their adventurous plots but also for their thematic depth and influence on genre fiction.
Core Themes
- Heroism and Morality: His protagonists typically embody virtues of bravery, justice, and moral integrity.
- Exploration and Discovery: A recurring motif of venturing into unknown worlds or realms, driven by curiosity and courage.
- Nature versus Civilization: Many stories explore the tension between the natural world and human societal structures.
- Good versus Evil: Clear moral dichotomies often drive the conflicts in his stories.
Influence on Popular Culture
- His creation of Tarzan revolutionized adventure fiction and inspired countless adaptations in film and television.
- The Barsoom series influenced science fiction’s portrayal of alien worlds and space adventure narratives.
- His works helped establish the template for pulp adventure stories, inspiring modern superhero, fantasy, and sci-fi genres.
Legacy and Continued Relevance
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books remain widely read and celebrated today, thanks to ongoing publications, new editions, and adaptations. His influence extends into modern media, with numerous films, TV series, comics, and video games drawing inspiration from his worlds.
Notable adaptations include:
- The 2012 film John Carter, based on the Mars series
- Various Tarzan movies and television series spanning decades
- Comic books and graphic novels inspired by his characters and worlds
His stories continue to appeal to new generations of readers who enjoy adventure, science fiction, and fantasy. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out vintage editions of his works, while modern publishers keep his legacy alive with reprints and special editions.
Where to Start with Books by Edgar Rice Burroughs
For newcomers, selecting the right starting point can enhance the reading experience:
- Tarzan of the Apes: The quintessential Burroughs novel and a great introduction to his style and themes.
- A Princess of Mars: The beginning of the influential Barsoom series with exciting alien adventures.
- Pellucidar: For those interested in prehistoric, subterranean worlds.
Reading these classics provides a solid foundation for exploring his expansive bibliography.
Conclusion
Books by Edgar Rice Burroughs offer a timeless blend of adventure, imagination, and heroism. His prolific output of series and standalone novels has shaped the landscape of science fiction and fantasy, inspiring generations of writers and filmmakers. Whether exploring the jungles with Tarzan, traveling to Mars with John Carter, or venturing into the mysterious depths of Pellucidar, readers are invited to embark on extraordinary journeys that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Rediscovering Burroughs’s works is not just a trip into fantastic worlds but also an appreciation of a master storyteller whose influence endures across the decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most famous books written by Edgar Rice Burroughs?
Some of Edgar Rice Burroughs' most famous books include 'Tarzan of the Apes,' 'The Land That Time Forgot,' 'John Carter of Mars' series, and 'At the Earth's Core.'
What is the central theme of Edgar Rice Burroughs' Tarzan series?
The Tarzan series primarily explores themes of jungle adventure, human nature, and the contrast between civilization and the wild, featuring Tarzan's life as a feral child raised in the African jungle.
Are Edgar Rice Burroughs' books still popular today?
Yes, Burroughs' books continue to be popular among fans of science fiction and adventure genres, inspiring numerous adaptations, comic books, and renewed interest in pulp fiction classics.
Which Edgar Rice Burroughs series is set on the planet Mars?
The series set on Mars is the 'John Carter of Mars' series, also known as the Barsoom series, beginning with 'A Princess of Mars.'
Have Edgar Rice Burroughs' works influenced modern science fiction and fantasy?
Absolutely, Burroughs' imaginative worlds and adventure stories have heavily influenced modern science fiction and fantasy, inspiring authors like George Lucas, Star Wars, and countless adventure narratives.
Are there any recent adaptations of Edgar Rice Burroughs' books?
Yes, recent adaptations include movies like Disney's 'The Legend of Tarzan' (2016) and various comic book reprints, along with new graphic novel versions of his stories.
Where can I find Edgar Rice Burroughs' books today?
His books are widely available in bookstores, online retailers, and digital platforms such as Project Gutenberg, which offers many of his works for free in the public domain.
