Adventure · Fiction
The gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs — Summary, Key Ideas & Full Text
274 pages23 chapters5h 30m read3h 54m speed read✦ 10-min Big ideas★ 4.2 (10)Free · no account
Rate it
What is The gods of Mars about?
A daring adventure on Mars reveals the eternal struggle between love, duty, and the fight against tyranny
Read full overviewShow less›
In 'The Gods of Mars', Edgar Rice Burroughs continues the epic saga of John Carter, a man transported to the dying world of Mars, known as Barsoom. This thrilling sequel explores themes of love, honor, and the relentless pursuit of freedom as Carter embarks on a quest to rescue his beloved Dejah Thoris from the clutches of dark forces. Readers will be drawn into a vivid world filled with strange creatures, fierce battles, and the complex politics of Martian society. Burroughs masterfully weaves action and romance into a narrative that examines the nature of heroism and the sacrifices made in the name of love. Prepare to be captivated by a tale that transcends time and space, inviting you to explore the depths of courage and the heights of passion in a world unlike any other.
Edgar Rice Burroughs' 'The Gods of Mars' is a captivating tale that intertwines adventure, romance, and philosophical exploration. Through John Carter's journey, readers are invited to reflect on the nature of love, the complexities of society, and the struggle for freedom against tyranny. The novel serves as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and the bonds of friendship can empower individuals to confront their destinies. Ultimately, Burroughs crafts a narrative that resonates with the timeless themes of sacrifice and heroism, encouraging readers to consider their own capacity for courage and resilience in the face of adversity. As we navigate our own challenges, the lessons from Carter's adventures remain relevant, urging us to fight for love, justice, and the greater good.
Ratings at a glance
Open Library
★ 4.2 / 5
10 ratings
✦
Get smart in 10 min
Skip the 274 pages · 10 key ideas · read or listen
- 1The Eternal Quest for Love
- 2The Setting: A Dying Planet
- 3The Complexities of Martian Society
- 4The Nature of Heroism
- 5The Role of Fate and Free Will
+5 more ideas · 🎧 listenRead or listen to the summary →
⚡
Speed readNew
Read the full book up to 3× faster — one focus word at a time, in about 3h 54m.
Notable quotes
“Come,” cried Tars Tarkas, “we must make for the cliffs. There lies our only hope of even temporary escape; there we may find a cave or a narrow ledge which two may defend for ever against this motley, unarmed horde.”
“Dog of a blasphemer! Think you that Phaidor, daughter of Matai Shang, supplicates? She commands.”
“You shall pay the awful penalty for your blasphemy in this secret cell. Here you shall lie alone and in darkness with the carcass of your accomplice festering in its rottenness by your side, until crazed by loneliness and hunger you feed upon the crawling maggots that were once a man.”
A glimpse inside
The Eternal Quest for Love
At the heart of 'The Gods of Mars' is John Carter's unwavering love for Dejah Thoris, which propels him into a series of perilous adventures. Read moreAt the heart of 'The Gods of Mars' is John Carter's unwavering love for Dejah Thoris, which propels him into a series of perilous adventures. Carter's longing to reunite with his wife is not merely a personal desire; it represents a deeper commitment to his ideals and responsibilities. His journey is fraught with danger, yet each challenge he faces is a testament to the lengths one will go to for love. Throughout the narrative, Carter's thoughts frequently return to Dejah, reminding the reader of the emotional stakes involved. Burroughs uses their relationship to drive the plot forward, as Carter's determination to rescue her ultimately leads him to confront formidable adversaries. This theme resonates with readers, illustrating that love is often the catalyst for bravery and heroism, compelling individuals to confront insurmountable odds, and serves as a reminder that the pursuit of love can ignite a fire of resilience within the human spirit. Show less
The Setting: A Dying Planet
Mars, or Barsoom, is depicted as a once-thriving world now on the brink of collapse, plagued by environmental decay and societal strife. Read moreMars, or Barsoom, is depicted as a once-thriving world now on the brink of collapse, plagued by environmental decay and societal strife. From the outset, Burroughs immerses readers in vivid descriptions of the planet's landscapes, which serve to reflect the inner turmoil of its inhabitants. The majestic cities and breathtaking vistas starkly contrast with the suffering of Martian people, who are grappling with the consequences of their own hubris. The descriptions of the failing atmosphere and the ensuing desperation create a palpable tension that drives the narrative. The decline of Barsoom serves as a metaphor for the struggles faced by the characters, emphasizing that the fight for survival is not only physical but also moral and spiritual. Burroughs uses the environmental degradation as an essential backdrop for Carter's quest, creating a world that is both beautiful and tragic. This rich setting invites readers to consider the impact of human actions on the planet and reflects the timeless theme of nature's fragility. Show less
Read the full text — free
The complete public-domain text, every chapter — no account, no ads
Read at your pace, blitz it in speed-read mode, or get the big ideas in 10 minutes
About the author
Edgar Rice Burroughs
Edgar Rice Burroughs has 9 works free to read on Lumina, including A Princess of Mars, Out of Time's Abyss, Tarzan of the Apes
A Princess of Mars
Out of Time's Abyss
Tarzan of the Apes
The Chessmen of Mars
The Land That Time Forgot
Frequently asked
Yes — the complete text of The gods of Mars is free to read online, with no account and no ads. The 8-minute Big-ideas summary and audio narration are unlocked too