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by Edgar Rice Burroughs
A Princess of Mars is a science fiction novel by Edgar Rice Burroughs, first serialized in 1912. The story follows John Carter, a Confederate Civil War veteran who mysteriously finds himself on Mars (known as Barsoom).
On the red planet, Carter discovers that the lower gravity grants him enhanced strength and agility, and he is soon captured by the Tharks, a race of warlike, green-skinned Martians. Amid this strange new world, Carter encounters Dejah Thoris, the beautiful princess of the Red Martians.
As Carter becomes embroiled in the politics and battles of Barsoom, he aligns himself with Dejah Thoris and her people, the Heliumites. He earns the respect of the Tharks, particularly their leader, Tars Tarkas, through his courage and sense of honor. The novel follows his efforts to rescue Dejah from enemies, unite the various Martian factions, and navigate the planet's complex society, blending action with themes of loyalty and chivalry.
Burroughs' imaginative portrayal of Mars, complete with advanced technology and exotic alien species, captured the public's imagination and helped establish the conventions of modern science fiction. _A Princess of Mars_ set the stage for the Barsoom series, influencing many future works in the genre and becoming a foundational text for planetary romance and space opera adventures.
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Edgar Rice Burroughs was an American author, best known for his creation of the jungle hero Tarzan and the heroic John Carter, although he produced works in many genres.
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