# IX: Issus, Goddess of Life Eternal explained — The Gods of Mars

> Chapter companion for The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## What happens

John Carter is brought before Issus, the ancient and hideous deity of the First Born, who degrades Xodar for his defeat. Phaidor confesses her love for Carter, but he gently rejects her, revealing his love for Dejah Thoris. Enraged, Phaidor vows revenge. Carter is then taken to a subterranean vault and later returned to Shador, witnessing the cruelty and power of Issus.

## Themes in this chapter

### Illusion vs. Reality

Issus is revealed as a hideous, toothless old woman, shattering the illusion of divine beauty and power.

### Deception and Manipulation

Phaidor's initial affection turns to vindictive manipulation after rejection, and Issus uses fear to control her subjects.

### Love and Sacrifice

John Carter's steadfast love for Dejah Thoris leads him to reject Phaidor, risking her wrath.

## Character check-ins

### John Carter

Brought before Issus, rejects Phaidor's love, and is returned to Shador.

### Issus

The ancient, hideous goddess who degrades Xodar and commands Carter's fate.

### Xodar

Degraded from Dator to slave by Issus after his defeat by John Carter.

### Phaidor

Confesses love to John Carter, is rejected, and vows revenge against him and Dejah Thoris.

### Dejah Thoris

Mentioned as the object of John Carter's love, targeted by Phaidor's revenge.

## Key lines

> omnipotence may drag its possessor.

Absolute power can corrupt and degrade even the most powerful being.

_Reflects on the moral decay of Issus due to her unchecked authority._

> Let the man turn and look upon Issus, knowing that those of the lower orders who gaze upon the holy vision of her radiant face survive the blinding glory but a single year.

Issus commands that those who see her face will die within a year, a ritual of control.

_Highlights the religious manipulation and fear used by Issus._

> Phaidor has glorified you with her love, and you have spurned her. Ten thousand unthinkably atrocious deaths could not atone for the affront that you have put upon me.

Phaidor feels deeply insulted by John Carter's rejection and vows a terrible revenge.

_Shows the shift from love to vengeful fury in Phaidor's character._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gods_of_mars_se/chapters/ix-issus-goddess-of-life-eternal
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gods_of_mars_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_gods_of_mars_se/chapters