A Princess of Mars · Chapter
X: Champion and Chief explained
John Carter, having killed a Tharkian chieftain in combat, is recognized as a chieftain himself and granted the respect and regalia of his fallen foe.
What happens
John Carter, having killed a Tharkian chieftain in combat, is recognized as a chieftain himself and granted the respect and regalia of his fallen foe. He defends Dejah Thoris from further harm, declaring himself her protector, and earns the grudging admiration of Tars Tarkas. Later, he tests his bond with Woola, winning the creature's loyalty through affection, and explores the outskirts of the dead city.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Custom
Martian customs dictate that a warrior who kills a chieftain in combat inherits his rank and regalia, a code Carter must navigate.
Courage and Combat
Carter's single-handed defeat of a Thark warrior and his willingness to fight for Dejah Thoris exemplify his courage and combat prowess.
Alienation and Belonging
Carter, an Earthman among Martians, finds acceptance and rank through his actions, yet remains an outsider bound by his own moral code.
Characters to notice
- John Carter
Becomes a Tharkian chieftain after killing his adversary; defends Dejah Thoris and wins Woola's loyalty.
- Dejah Thoris
Injured by a Thark warrior, she is rescued and protected by John Carter; questions his motives and origins.
- Tars Tarkas
Questions John Carter about his language skills and warns him of the consequences of his actions; shows interest in Carter's character.
- Sola
Credited by John Carter as his language instructor; informs him of the limits of his freedom and Woola's role.
- Woola
Initially a guard, he becomes John Carter's devoted companion after being shown affection.
- Tal Hajus
Mentioned as the Jeddak of Thark to whom Carter must be delivered for judgment.
- Lorquas Ptomel
The Jed among the Tharks who grants Carter respect and toleration until they reach Tal Hajus.
Key passages
“You speak the tongue of Barsoom quite readily for one who was deaf and dumb to us a few short days ago. Where did you learn it, John Carter?”
Tars Tarkas expresses surprise at how quickly John Carter has learned the Martian language.
Highlights Carter's rapid adaptation and Sola's role as teacher.
“Should you, in recognition of your remarkable valor, ferocity, and prowess, be considered by Tal Hajus as worthy of his service you may be taken into the community and become a full-fledged Tharkian.”
Tars Tarkas explains that if Tal Hajus deems Carter worthy, he could be accepted as a member of the Thark tribe.
Sets up the conditional acceptance Carter faces among the Tharks.
“Why did you do it? You who refused me even friendly recognition in the first hour of my peril! And now you risk your life and kill one of your companions for my sake.”
Dejah Thoris asks John Carter why he would risk his life to defend her after initially ignoring her plight.
Reveals Dejah Thoris's confusion and growing trust in Carter.