Edgar Rice Burroughs

Definition

Edgar Rice Burroughs was an American author best known for creating the iconic character Tarzan and the science fiction series John Carter of Mars. His work helped shape the genre of science fiction and adventure literature, combining imaginative storytelling with themes of exploration and humanity's relationship with nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Burroughs published his first Tarzan novel, 'Tarzan of the Apes,' in 1912, which became an immediate success and led to numerous sequels and adaptations.
2. His 'John Carter of Mars' series, starting with 'A Princess of Mars' in 1912, introduced readers to a vivid alien world and inspired many later science fiction writers.
3. Burroughs's writing style is often noted for its fast-paced action and vivid imagery, making his stories accessible and entertaining for a broad audience.
4. He established his own publishing company to retain creative control over his works and to adapt them into various media formats like films and comics.
5. Burroughs' influence extends beyond literature; his characters have become cultural icons, appearing in numerous films, television shows, and merchandise throughout the years.

Review Questions

• How did Edgar Rice Burroughs' portrayal of characters like Tarzan reflect the cultural attitudes of his time?
  • Burroughs' characters often embodied the tension between civilization and nature, reflecting early 20th-century cultural attitudes that valued exploration and adventure. Tarzan's jungle upbringing symbolizes a return to a primal state, highlighting themes of savagery versus sophistication. This portrayal resonated with readers during a time of industrialization and colonial expansion, where such conflicts were prevalent in society.
• Analyze how Burroughs' work contributed to the development of science fiction as a genre.
  • Burroughs' novels like 'John Carter of Mars' introduced imaginative worlds filled with fantastical elements that pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling. His ability to blend adventure with speculative ideas laid groundwork for future science fiction authors. By creating fully realized worlds with their own rules and cultures, he helped establish a template for world-building in science fiction literature that continues to influence the genre today.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Burroughs' legacy on contemporary literature and popular culture.
  • Edgar Rice Burroughs has had a profound impact on contemporary literature and popular culture through his creation of enduring characters and imaginative narratives. His works have inspired countless adaptations across film, television, and graphic novels, establishing archetypes that resonate even today. The themes he explored about humanity's relationship with nature and the idea of adventure continue to be relevant, ensuring that Burroughs’ influence persists in modern storytelling across various media.

Related terms

Tarzan: A fictional character created by Burroughs, Tarzan is a man raised in the jungle by apes, representing themes of civilization versus nature.

John Carter of Mars: A series of science fiction novels featuring the adventures of John Carter, an Earthman who finds himself on Mars, blending elements of fantasy and futurism.

Pulp Fiction: A genre of popular fiction that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by sensational stories and mass-market appeal, which includes Burroughs' works.