# Carthoris and Thuvia explained — Thuvia, Maid of Mars

> Chapter companion for Thuvia, Maid of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se/chapters/i-carthoris-and-thuvia
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se/chapters