A Princess of Mars · Chapter
Through Carnage to Joy explained
The chapter details the final naval and land battles against Zodanga, the surrender of the Zodangan fleet, the transfer of Dejah Thoris to the Helium flagship, the land assault with Thark allies, the defeat of Zodanga, the triumphal entry i
What happens
The chapter details the final naval and land battles against Zodanga, the surrender of the Zodangan fleet, the transfer of Dejah Thoris to the Helium flagship, the land assault with Thark allies, the defeat of Zodanga, the triumphal entry into Helium, and the formal greetings and gratitude from Tardos Mors and Mors Kajak.
Themes in this chapter
Courage and Combat
The chapter is dominated by intense battle scenes, including air combat, cavalry charges, and the final defeat of Zodanga, showcasing the valor and ferocity of both Tharks and Heliumites.
Honor and Custom
The voluntary plunging of commanders to signal surrender, the formal greetings between leaders, and the courtly manners of Tharks all underscore the importance of ritual and honor in Barsoomian society.
Alienation and Belonging
John Carter, an Earthman, is fully accepted into Heliumite society, being called 'my son' by Tardos Mors, while the Tharks, once feared outsiders, are welcomed as friends and allies.
Characters to notice
- John Carter
Leads the Thark forces in battle, orchestrates the transfer of Dejah Thoris, and is honored by Tardos Mors and Mors Kajak.
- Dejah Thoris
Transferred to the Helium flagship and returned to her grandfather's court; greeted by officers and celebrated as the princess of Helium.
- Tars Tarkas
Commands the Thark forces, leads charges against Zodangan lines, and is formally welcomed by Tardos Mors as a friend and ally.
- Kantos Kan
Present on the ship during the transfer of Dejah Thoris and later returns to report the complete reduction of Zodanga.
- Tardos Mors
Jeddak of Helium; greets the victorious party, expresses gratitude to Tars Tarkas and John Carter, and welcomes John Carter as a son.
- Mors Kajak
Jed of lesser Helium and father of Dejah Thoris; deeply emotional upon meeting John Carter, trying repeatedly to express his gratitude.
- Woola
Accompanies John Carter during the triumphal procession; noted for his ferocious appearance that does not deter the populace.
Key passages
“Lay your hands upon the shoulder of John Carter, the man to whom Helium owes her princess as well as her victory today.”
Dejah Thoris presents John Carter to the Heliumite officers as the one responsible for both her rescue and the day's triumph.
Dejah Thoris publicly acknowledges John Carter's central role in the victory.
“You owe your thanks more to another man than to me, and here he is; meet one of Barsoom's greatest soldiers and statesmen, Tars Tarkas, Jeddak of Thark.”
John Carter deflects praise to Tars Tarkas, introducing him as a key ally and a notable leader.
John Carter emphasizes the alliance with the Tharks and Tars Tarkas's importance.
“That Tardos Mors may meet the greatest living warrior of Barsoom is a priceless honor, but that he may lay his hand on the shoulder of a friend and ally is a far greater boon.”
Tardos Mors tells Tars Tarkas that meeting a great warrior is an honor, but gaining a friend and ally is even more valuable.
Tardos Mors formally welcomes the Tharks as friends, sealing the new alliance.
“Welcome, my son; that you are granted, gladly, and without one word of opposition, the most precious jewel in all Helium, yes, on all Barsoom, is sufficient earnest of my esteem.”
Tardos Mors welcomes John Carter as a son and approves his marriage to Dejah Thoris without objection.
Tardos Mors gives his blessing to John Carter and Dejah Thoris's union.
