Edgar Rice Burroughs was an American author who left an indelible mark on the world of literature, cinema, and media. Born on September 1, 1875, in Chicago, Illinois, Burroughs led a fascinating life that shaped his imaginative storytelling. Despite facing numerous challenges, he went on to become one of the most influential and beloved authors of the 20th century.
Biography of Edgar Rice Burroughs
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s life was a testament to the human spirit and resilience. Born into a well-to-do family, he experienced both the joys of affluence and the struggles of financial instability. Despite his privileged background, Burroughs faced several setbacks throughout his life, including failed business ventures and a brief period of homelessness. It was during these difficult times that he found solace in writing.
Burroughs’s breakthrough came in 1912 with the publication of his first novel, “Tarzan of the Apes.” This iconic adventure story introduced readers to the unforgettable character of Tarzan, a man raised by apes in the African jungle. The success of “Tarzan of the Apes” catapulted Burroughs into literary stardom, and he went on to write 23 more Tarzan novels. His vivid imagination and captivating storytelling paved the way for a new era of adventure literature.
Intriguing tidbits about Edgar Rice Burroughs
While Edgar Rice Burroughs is primarily known for his Tarzan series, there are many intriguing facts about his life that are worth exploring. For instance, did you know that Burroughs claimed to have served as a cowboy, a railroad policeman, and even a gold miner? These experiences undoubtedly influenced his writing and added authenticity to his stories.
Another fascinating aspect of Burroughs’s life is his enduring popularity. Despite passing away on March 19, 1950, his literary legacy continues to captivate readers and inspire filmmakers. His stories have been translated into numerous languages and adapted into countless films, television shows, and comics. Edgar Rice Burroughs’s impact on popular culture is truly timeless.
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s love life and friendships
Beyond his literary achievements, Edgar Rice Burroughs had a rich personal life as well. He was married three times, with each marriage contributing to his growth as a person and as a writer. His first marriage, to Emma Hulbert, lasted for 34 years and produced three children. Although they eventually divorced, Burroughs credited Emma for supporting him during his early struggles as a writer.
After his divorce from Emma, Burroughs married Florence Dearholt, an actress. Their marriage was short-lived but resulted in an intriguing partnership. Together, they formed their own film production company and even ventured into the world of filmmaking. This endeavor allowed Burroughs to witness firsthand the process of bringing his stories to the silver screen.
In his later years, Burroughs found love again with his third wife, Joan. Their marriage lasted until his death and provided him with the companionship and support he needed during his final years. Additionally, Burroughs formed lasting friendships with prominent figures such as H.G. Wells and Thomas Edison, further solidifying his place in literary and intellectual circles.
Exploring Edgar Rice Burroughs’s impact on cinema and media
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s influence on cinema and media is undeniable. His iconic characters and imaginative worlds have been brought to life on the silver screen numerous times. One of the most notable adaptations is the screen version of his novel “A Princess of Mars,” which was released in 2012 under the title “John Carter.” This science fiction epic introduced audiences to the thrilling Barsoom series and showcased Burroughs’s ability to create immersive and visually stunning worlds.
In addition to film adaptations, Burroughs’s stories have been adapted into television shows, comics, and even video games. His timeless themes of adventure, heroism, and love continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether it’s swinging through the jungle with Tarzan or embarking on interplanetary journeys with John Carter, Edgar Rice Burroughs’s stories have left an indelible mark on cinema and media.
The best books by Edgar Rice Burroughs – lists and brief descriptions
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s vast body of work includes numerous thrilling novels that have enthralled readers for generations. Here, we present a list of the top five must-read books by this legendary author:
- “Tarzan of the Apes”: The book that started it all, “Tarzan of the Apes” introduces readers to the iconic character of Tarzan and his thrilling adventures in the African jungle.
- “A Princess of Mars”: This sci-fi masterpiece takes readers on a thrilling journey to the planet Barsoom, where John Carter becomes embroiled in a war between alien civilizations.
- “The Land That Time Forgot”: In this thrilling tale, a group of adventurers discovers a hidden land filled with prehistoric creatures and dangerous tribes.
- “At the Earth’s Core”: Join David Innes as he embarks on a perilous journey to the center of the Earth, encountering strange creatures and ancient civilizations along the way.
- “The Gods of Mars”: The sequel to “A Princess of Mars,” this book follows John Carter as he battles against powerful Martian gods in a desperate attempt to save his beloved Dejah Thoris.
Each of these books showcases Burroughs’s exceptional storytelling skills, transporting readers to captivating worlds filled with adventure, danger, and romance.
Quotes by Edgar Rice Burroughs
Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books are not only known for their thrilling narratives but also for the profound wisdom contained within them. Here are some of his best quotes that offer insights into life, love, and the human spirit:
- “We are, all of us, creatures of habit, and when the seeming necessity for schooling ourselves in new ways ceases to exist, we fall naturally and easily into the manner and customs which long usage has implanted ineradicably within us.”
- “Imagination is but another name for super intelligence.”
- “Love is a strange master, and human nature is still stranger.”
- “I have learned to know that a man’s life is in his own hands, and no one has a right to take it from him.”
- “The only difference between myself and those who have not passed through this experience is that I know that I am a coward, whatever brave words I may utter.”
These quotes offer a glimpse into the depth and complexity of Burroughs’s writing, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of the human condition.
Main settings of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books
One of the defining features of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books is the vivid and imaginative settings in which they take place. From the dense jungles of Africa to the vast deserts of Mars, each location serves as a backdrop for thrilling adventures and epic storytelling. Here are some of the main settings featured in Burroughs’s works:
- African Jungle: The African jungle serves as the primary setting for the Tarzan series. Its lush vegetation, dangerous predators, and hidden civilizations provide the perfect backdrop for Tarzan’s wild exploits.
- The Planet Barsoom (Mars): Barsoom, also known as Mars, is the setting for Burroughs’s Barsoom series. This alien world is characterized by its desolate landscapes, towering cities, and warring civilizations. The vivid descriptions of Barsoom transport readers to a planet filled with wonder and danger.
- Pellucidar: Pellucidar is a subterranean world located at the Earth’s core. In this hidden realm, dinosaurs still roam, and primitive civilizations exist. It is a place of mystery and adventure, where danger lurks at every turn.
- Lost Cities: Throughout his novels, Burroughs often incorporates lost cities or civilizations that have been forgotten by time. These hidden enclaves, such as Opar and Pal-ul-don, offer a sense of mystery and exploration.
These settings not only serve as backdrops for thrilling adventures but also become characters in their own right, adding depth and richness to Burroughs’s storytelling.
The first and last books by Edgar Rice Burroughs
The first book written by Edgar Rice Burroughs was none other than the iconic “Tarzan of the Apes.” Published in 1912, this novel introduced readers to the legendary character of Tarzan and set the stage for the numerous sequels that would follow. “Tarzan of the Apes” remains one of Burroughs’s most beloved and enduring works, captivating readers with its thrilling adventure and timeless themes.
On the other end of the spectrum, the last book written by Burroughs before his passing was “The Land of Terror,” published in 1944. This gripping tale follows the adventures of an explorer who stumbles upon a hidden land filled with terrifying creatures and dangerous tribes. “The Land of Terror” showcases Burroughs’s ability to captivate readers with his imaginative storytelling, even in the later years of his career.
The first and last books by Edgar Rice Burroughs serve as bookends to a remarkable literary journey that spanned over three decades. They demonstrate the enduring appeal of his storytelling and the timeless nature of his characters.
Screen adaptation of A Princess of Mars
One of the most notable screen adaptations of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s works is the film adaptation of “A Princess of Mars.” Released in 2012 under the title “John Carter,” this science fiction epic brought Burroughs’s imaginative world of Barsoom to life on the big screen. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film introduced audiences to the swashbuckling adventures of John Carter, a Civil War veteran who finds himself transported to the planet Mars.
Despite its ambitious scope and stunning visual effects, “John Carter” did not achieve the commercial success that many had hoped for. Nevertheless, the film garnered a loyal following and has since gained recognition for its innovative world-building and thrilling action sequences. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Burroughs’s storytelling and the timeless appeal of his characters.
Artists who inspired Edgar Rice Burroughs
As a creative visionary, Edgar Rice Burroughs drew inspiration from a variety of sources. He was influenced by the works of other artists, whose creativity and imagination fueled his own storytelling. Some of the prominent artists who inspired Burroughs include:
- Jules Verne: The imaginative works of Jules Verne, such as “Journey to the Center of the Earth” and “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea,” inspired Burroughs to explore the realms of science fiction and adventure.
- H. Rider Haggard: Haggard’s adventure novels, particularly “King Solomon’s Mines” and “She,” influenced Burroughs’s portrayal of exotic locations and thrilling quests.
- Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: Best known for his Sherlock Holmes stories, Conan Doyle’s ability to craft intricate mysteries and compelling characters inspired Burroughs to create intricate plots and memorable heroes.
- Robert E. Howard: Howard’s pulp fiction tales, particularly the Conan the Barbarian series, influenced Burroughs’s writing style and his exploration of heroic fantasy.
- H.G. Wells: Wells’s science fiction works, such as “The War of the Worlds” and “The Time Machine,” sparked Burroughs’s fascination with extraterrestrial worlds and time travel.
These artists provided Burroughs with a foundation of inspiration, shaping his literary career and contributing to the enduring appeal of his works.
Other writers and books to read if you liked Edgar Rice Burroughs
If you enjoyed the thrilling adventures and imaginative worlds created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, there are several other writers and books that you should add to your reading list. These authors share a similar spirit of adventure and storytelling, making them the perfect companions for fans of Burroughs. Here are five recommendations:
- Robert E. Howard – “Conan the Barbarian”: Howard’s tales of the mighty barbarian Conan are filled with gripping action, epic battles, and larger-than-life characters.
- H. Rider Haggard – “King Solomon’s Mines”: Join Allan Quatermain on a thrilling journey through the African wilderness in search of a lost treasure.
- H.P. Lovecraft – “At the Mountains of Madness”: Lovecraft’s cosmic horror stories transport readers to otherworldly realms filled with ancient gods and unspeakable terrors.
- J.R.R. Tolkien – “The Lord of the Rings”: Tolkien’s epic fantasy trilogy takes readers on a grand adventure through Middle-earth, filled with rich world-building, memorable characters, and epic battles.
- Robert Louis Stevenson – “Treasure Island”: Set sail for adventure with young Jim Hawkins as he embarks on a perilous journey in search of buried treasure.
These authors and their works capture the spirit of adventure and imagination that made Edgar Rice Burroughs’s novels so beloved. Exploring their stories will transport you to new worlds and keep the spirit of Burroughs alive.
Buying guide for Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books
If you’re looking to dive into the captivating worlds of Edgar Rice Burroughs, here’s a buying guide to help you navigate his extensive bibliography:
- Start with “Tarzan of the Apes”: Begin your Burroughs journey with the iconic “Tarzan of the Apes” to experience the thrilling adventures of the Lord of the Jungle.
- Explore the Barsoom series: Immerse yourself in the science fiction world of Barsoom by starting with “A Princess of Mars” and continuing with the subsequent novels in the series.
- Discover the Pellucidar series: Journey to the Earth’s core with “At the Earth’s Core” and follow David Innes’s adventures in this hidden realm.
- Delve into other series and standalone novels: Once you’ve explored the major series, delve into other standalone novels such as “The Land That Time Forgot” and “The Gods of Mars.”
- Consider omnibus editions: To get the most out of your reading experience, consider purchasing omnibus editions that collect multiple novels or series in one volume.
Whether you choose to read the novels in chronological order or jump into different series, Edgar Rice Burroughs’s books promise thrilling adventures and unforgettable characters.
