# XIV: Kulan Tith's Sacrifice explained — Thuvia, Maid of Mars

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

## What happens

Thuvia of Ptarth, imprisoned in the east tower of Astok's palace, awaits her execution. Astok and Vas Kor enter to carry out the deed, but are interrupted by the panthan (Carthoris in disguise), who fights them off. Carthoris and Thuvia escape, and later, Kulan Tith arrives with his Kaolian warriors. In a climactic battle, Kar Komak's bowmen emerge from the Thuria to defeat the green horde. Kulan Tith overhears Thuvia declare her love for Carthoris and selflessly releases her from their betrothal, blessing their union.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Obsession

Thuvia's love for Carthoris overrides her duty to Kulan Tith, and Kulan Tith's sacrifice demonstrates selfless love.

### Courage and Sacrifice

Carthoris risks his life to rescue Thuvia, and Kulan Tith sacrifices his claim to her for her happiness.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Astok and Vas Kor betray Thuvia and the Jeddak's orders, while Carthoris and Kar Komak show loyalty to their cause.

## Character check-ins

### Thuvia of Ptarth

Imprisoned and awaiting execution, she compares Astok unfavorably to Carthoris and ultimately declares her love for Carthoris.

### Astok of Dusar

Plots Thuvia's murder with Vas Kor, but is confronted and thwarted by Carthoris.

### Vas Kor

Hired as an assassin by Astok, he is disarmed and defeated by the disguised Carthoris.

### Carthoris of Helium

Disguised as a panthan, he rescues Thuvia, fights Astok and Vas Kor, and later prepares to leave before Thuvia confesses her love.

### Kulan Tith

Arrives with his Kaolian warriors, witnesses Thuvia's declaration, and selflessly releases her from their betrothal.

### Kar Komak

Commands the bowmen of Lothar, leads them in battle against the green horde, and pursues the enemy.

## Key lines

> I prefer to die standing.

Thuvia refuses to kneel before her executioner, asserting her dignity.

_Demonstrates Thuvia's courage and defiance in the face of death._

> In the name of Carthoris, Prince of Helium!

Carthoris announces himself as he intervenes to save Thuvia.

_Key moment of revelation and rescue._

> Stay, my chieftain. Stay—I love you!

Thuvia confesses her love for Carthoris, breaking her betrothal to Kulan Tith.

_Climactic emotional declaration that changes the course of the story._

> Take back your liberty, Thuvia of Ptarth, and bestow it where your heart already lies enchained.

Kulan Tith releases Thuvia from their engagement, blessing her union with Carthoris.

_Shows Kulan Tith's nobility and self-sacrifice._

## Links

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