Thuvia, Maid of Mars · Chapter
VI: The Jeddak of Lothar explained
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.
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.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the dramatic climax because it presents the ultimate crisis of faith versus action: Jav’s abject terro…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes 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.
Characters to notice
- 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 passages
“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.
