# VI: The Jeddak of Lothar explained — Thuvia, Maid of Mars

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

## What happens

Carthoris and Thuvia, after witnessing the mysterious disappearance of the dead bowmen and the lack of wounds on the Torquasian corpses, approach the walled city of Lothar. Thuvia demonstrates her uncanny power over the banths, commanding them to obey her. They enter the city and are brought before Tario, the Jeddak of Lothar, where Carthoris refuses to prostrate himself, asserting his dignity. The chapter explores the ancient, isolated city and its inhabitants' limited worldview.

## Themes in this chapter

### Reality vs. Illusion

The mysterious disappearance of the dead bowmen and the lack of wounds on the Torquasians blur the line between reality and illusion, creating an uncanny atmosphere.

### Courage and Sacrifice

Carthoris and Thuvia show courage in the face of the unknown, with Carthoris standing defiantly before Tario despite the demand for submission.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Thuvia's trust in Carthoris is evident as she places her hand in his, seeking protection, while the Lotharians' loyalty to Tario is shown through their ritualistic crawling.

## Character check-ins

### Carthoris of Helium

Observes the mysterious disappearance of the dead bowmen and the lack of wounds on the Torquasians; stands defiantly before Tario, refusing to crawl.

### Thuvia of Ptarth

Demonstrates her power over the banths, commanding them to obey her; shows fear and awe at the uncanny events, but remains brave.

### Tario of Lothar

The Jeddak of Lothar, reclining on a dais, demands respect and is intrigued by the strangers.

### Jav

Conducts Carthoris and Thuvia to Tario; crawls on his belly and is horrified by the strangers' refusal to prostrate themselves.

## Key lines

> They lay in piles. There were thousands of them but a minute ago.

Thuvia expresses disbelief at the sudden disappearance of the dead bowmen.

_Highlights the uncanny nature of the events._

> The banths will not harm us.

Thuvia reassures Carthoris that she can control the banths.

_Demonstrates Thuvia's mysterious power over the beasts._

> Down! Down upon your bellies before the last of the jeddaks of Barsoom!

Jav commands Carthoris and Thuvia to prostrate themselves before Tario.

_Illustrates the rigid hierarchy and customs of Lothar._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se/chapters/vi-the-jeddak-of-lothar
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/thuvia_maid_of_mars_se/chapters