A Princess of Mars · Chapter
We Plan Escape explained
John Carter, having discovered that their escape plan has been betrayed, returns stealthily to Dejah Thoris's quarters only to overhear a trap set by Thark warriors.
What happens
John Carter, having discovered that their escape plan has been betrayed, returns stealthily to Dejah Thoris's quarters only to overhear a trap set by Thark warriors. He later reunites with Dejah Thoris and Sola, and together they devise a new escape route to Helium via a distant northern waterway, despite the looming threat of being thrown to wild calots at the yearly games.
Themes in this chapter
Survival and Adaptation
Carter and Dejah Thoris must adapt to their capture and devise a new escape plan after their original plan is discovered.
Alienation and Belonging
Sola is torn between her Thark heritage and her desire for a life among the red men of Helium, where love and gratitude exist.
Courage and Combat
Carter demonstrates courage by returning to Dejah Thoris's quarters despite the trap, and the group prepares for a perilous escape.
Characters to notice
- John Carter
Overhears the Thark trap and returns to Dejah Thoris; proposes a new escape plan via the northern waterway.
- Dejah Thoris
Draws a map of Barsoom on the floor; agrees to the northern escape route and invites Sola to join them.
- Sola
Warns of Sarkoja's report to Tal Hajus; agrees to join the escape and provides knowledge of the terrain.
- Sarkoja
Reported to Tal Hajus, leading to the threat of being thrown to wild calots.
- Tal Hajus
Jeddak of Thark; orders the captives to be thrown to wild calots at the yearly games.
Key passages
“I verily believe that a man’s way with women is in inverse ratio to his prowess among men.”
Carter reflects that a man's skill with women often decreases as his fighting ability increases.
Carter's introspection on his own awkwardness with Dejah Thoris despite his combat prowess.
“I am saying, Dejah Thoris, that I am yours, body and soul, to serve you, to fight for you, and to die for you.”
Carter declares his total devotion to Dejah Thoris, offering his service and life.
Carter's confession of love and commitment to Dejah Thoris.
“That you will be thrown to the wild calots in the great arena as soon as the hordes have assembled for the yearly games.”
Sola reports that Tal Hajus plans to have Carter and Dejah Thoris killed by wild dogs during the annual games.
The dire consequence of Sarkoja's report to Tal Hajus.