# Triplanetary — Themes

> Major themes in Triplanetary by E. E. Smith.

## Cosmic Conflict Between Good and Evil

The book depicts a vast, ancient struggle between the benevolent, mentally-powerful Arisians and the malevolent, parasitic Eddorians, with the fate of civilizations across galaxies hanging in the balance.

## Guided Evolution and Eugenics

The Arisians secretly guide the development of intelligent races, manipulating bloodlines and encouraging specific matings to create a superior race capable of wielding the Lens and defeating the Eddorians.

## Hidden Manipulation of History

Both Arisians and Eddorians operate through disguised agents and forms of flesh to influence historical events, such as the fall of Atlantis and Nero's Rome, without revealing their true nature.

## Sacrifice for the Greater Good

The Arisians allow entire civilizations to fall (e.g., Atlantis, Rome) as necessary steps in a long-term plan to ensure the ultimate triumph of Civilization, accepting short-term suffering for long-term victory.

## Mental vs. Physical Power

The narrative emphasizes that true power lies in mental force and psychic abilities, as the Arisians and the future Galactic Patrol must overcome the Eddorians through intellect and mind, not mere physical strength.

## Alien Otherness and Incomprehensibility

The Eddorians are portrayed as utterly alien beings from a different space-time, with a poisonous environment and a mechanistic, domineering mindset, contrasting sharply with humanoid and Earth-like Arisians.

## Cyclical Rise and Fall of Civilizations

The book explores the recurring pattern of civilizations rising and falling, such as Atlantis and Rome, often due to internal corruption, external manipulation, and the clash of opposing cosmic forces.

## Heroism and Personal Sacrifice

Characters like Conway Costigan and the gladiator Patroclus display personal bravery, resourcefulness, and willingness to risk their lives for loved ones or a cause, even against overwhelming odds.

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