# The Fall of Atlantis explained — Triplanetary

> Chapter companion for Triplanetary by E. E. Smith.

## What happens

The Eddorian Innermost Circle, led by the All-Highest, reviews the Great Plan and identifies four problematic planets in the other galaxy, including Sol III (Earth). Gharlane, as Master Number Two, is assigned to take control of Sol III and three other worlds. Meanwhile, the Arisian Elder Thinkers discuss their long-term strategy to develop a race capable of opposing the Eddorians through mental force, emphasizing the need for secrecy. On Atlantis, a council of statesmen debates the global crisis fueled by atomic energy, political factions, and international tensions, with some advocating for a preemptive strike against rival nations.

## Themes in this chapter

### Cosmic Conflict Between Good and Evil

The Eddorians and Arisians are engaged in a fundamental struggle for control over the development of civilizations.

### Hidden Manipulation of History

Both Eddorians and Arisians secretly guide the evolution and politics of planetary civilizations to serve their own ends.

### Cyclical Rise and Fall of Civilizations

The chapter depicts the impending fall of Atlantis and other civilizations as part of a larger cosmic cycle.

## Character check-ins

### Gharlane of Eddore

Assigned as Master Number Two to take control of Sol III and three other planets.

### Atlantis Ariponides

Presides over the Atlantean council and attempts to mediate the heated debate.

### Psychologist Talmonides

Operates a calculating machine and receives tabulated data from council members.

### Artomenes

The grizzled defense officer who recommends a preemptive strike against Norheim and Uighar.

### Statesman Cleto

Suggests that political extremists and atomic energy are the main causes of global chaos.

### Minister Marxes

Minister of Work who blames capitalists for the economic crisis.

## Key lines

> Members of the Innermost Circle, wherever you are and whatever you may be doing, tune in!

The All-Highest calls all members of the Innermost Circle to attention.

_Opening broadcast by the Eddorian leader._

> The Eddorians can be overcome only by mental force.

Only mental power can defeat the Eddorians.

_Arisian fundamental principle._

> I say hit both Norheim and Uighar right then, while we can, before they hit us. And hit them hard—pulverize them.

Artomenes advocates for a preemptive nuclear strike against Norheim and Uighar.

_Atlantean defense officer's aggressive recommendation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/triplanetary_se/chapters/ii-the-fall-of-atlantis
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/triplanetary_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/triplanetary_se/chapters