Thuvia, Maid of Mars · Chapter
Carthoris and Thuvia explained
In the royal gardens of Thuvan Dihn, Jeddak of Ptarth, Astok of Dusar affronts Thuvia by grasping her arm and declaring his love.
What happens
In the royal gardens of Thuvan Dihn, Jeddak of Ptarth, Astok of Dusar affronts Thuvia by grasping her arm and declaring his love. She calls the guard, but Carthoris of Helium intervenes, striking Astok and defending her honor. Thuvia later reveals she is promised to Kulan Tith of Kaol. Carthoris, though in love with her, accepts this and demonstrates his loyalty. He departs after showing Thuvan Dihn his new automatic compass and obstruction evader on his flier.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Obsession
Astok's aggressive pursuit of Thuvia and Carthoris' unrequited love both highlight the theme of love and obsession.
Honor and Chivalry
Carthoris defends Thuvia's honor and respects her betrothal, embodying chivalric ideals.
Political Intrigue and War
The potential for war between Ptarth and Dusar looms over the personal conflict, illustrating political tensions.
Characters to notice
- Thuvia of Ptarth
Princess of Ptarth; affronted by Astok's advances; reveals she is promised to Kulan Tith.
- Astok of Dusar
Prince of Dusar; forcibly grasps Thuvia and is struck by Carthoris; later takes formal leave.
- Carthoris of Helium
Son of John Carter; defends Thuvia's honor; confesses his love but respects her betrothal to Kulan Tith.
- Thuvan Dihn
Jeddak of Ptarth; father of Thuvia; inspects Carthoris' new compass and bids him farewell.
- Kulan Tith
Jeddak of Kaol; Thuvia's betrothed; mentioned as Ptarth's ally.
- John Carter
Warlord of Mars; father of Carthoris; referenced in the narrative.
Key passages
“Ah, Thuvia of Ptarth, you are cold even before the fiery blasts of my consuming love!”
Astok accuses Thuvia of being unmoved by his passionate declarations.
Astok's dramatic plea reveals his obsessive desire.
“You shall be my princess! By the breast of Issus, thou shalt, nor shall any other come between Astok, Prince of Dusar, and his heart's desire.”
Astok vows to make Thuvia his princess, threatening any rival.
Astok's forceful claim underscores his entitlement and aggression.
“I told you that I loved you, Thuvia, before I knew that you were promised to another. I may not tell you it again, but I am glad that you know it, for there is no dishonour in it either to you or to Kulan Tith or to myself.”
Carthoris confesses his love but accepts her betrothal, emphasizing honor.
Carthoris' declaration balances love with loyalty and integrity.