# The Great Tur explained — The Master Mind of Mars

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

## What happens

Vad Varo, impersonating the god Tur, orchestrates a daring escape from Phundahl with his companions, including Dar Tarus, Gor Hajus, and Hovan Du. They capture Xaxa and Sag Or, using the temple's mechanisms and the white ape's appearance to convince the populace of Tur's power. After a tense confrontation with guards, they secure a flier and set course for the Tower of Thavas, seeking to restore Dar Tarus's body and find Kara Vasa.

## Themes in this chapter

### Religion and Faith

Vad Varo exploits the religious beliefs of the Phundahlian people, using the Great Tur's image and voice to command obedience and awe.

### Identity and Body Transfer

Dar Tarus inhabits his own body but is animated by Sag Or's spirit, highlighting the theme of displaced identity.

### Power and Corruption

Xaxa's tyrannical rule and the manipulation of religious authority for personal gain reflect the corrupting influence of power.

## Character check-ins

### Vad Varo

Impersonates the Great Tur, using the god's eyes and speaking-tube to command the temple and orchestrate the escape.

### Dar Tarus

In his own body but inhabited by Sag Or's spirit; seeks restoration and reunion with Kara Vasa.

### Xaxa

Captured and forced to cooperate; remains defiant but is ultimately taken aboard the flier.

### Gor Hajus

Assists in the plan, retrieves Dar Tarus from the altar, and threatens Xaxa with a dagger to deter guards.

### Hovan Du

The great white ape; appears on the roof to reinforce the illusion of Tur and helps secure Sag Or.

### Sag Or

Bound and hidden in a tower; provides information about Kara Vasa's possible flight to Helium.

## Key lines

> I am Tur, the all-powerful, all-knowing, are beyond the conception of mortal man.

Vad Varo asserts his divine identity as Tur, claiming powers beyond human understanding.

_Used to maintain the illusion and control over Xaxa and the temple followers._

> The sacrifice is Tur’s. Tur will strike with his own hand.

Vad Varo declares that the offering belongs to Tur and that Tur himself will execute judgment.

_Part of the plan to rescue Dar Tarus from the altar._

> I shall not go with you. Rather would I die.

Xaxa refuses to cooperate with Vad Varo, preferring death over submission.

_Demonstrates her defiance despite being captured._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_master_mind_of_mars_se/chapters/xii-the-great-tur
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_master_mind_of_mars_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_master_mind_of_mars_se/chapters