Edgar Rice Burroughs, born on September 1, 1875, in Chicago, Illinois, is a towering figure in American popular literature, best known for creating the iconic character Tarzan. Bur...visualizza altroEdgar Rice Burroughs, born on September 1, 1875, in Chicago, Illinois, is a towering figure in American popular literature, best known for creating the iconic character Tarzan. Burroughs' journey to literary fame was unconventional; he held various jobs, from a gold miner to a pencil sharpener salesman, before turning to writing at the age of 35. His first novel, "Tarzan of the Apes" (1912), catapulted him to fame, introducing readers to a wild, untamed hero that would become a cultural phenomenon.
Burroughs' work is characterized by its imaginative scope and adventurous spirit, often blending elements of science fiction, fantasy, and romance. His creation of the fictional world of Barsoom, a richly detailed Martian landscape, showcased his ability to craft intricate and immersive universes. This world-building prowess influenced contemporary and later writers, including Ray Bradbury and Arthur C. Clarke, who admired his ability to transport readers to otherworldly realms.
Despite his commercial success, Burroughs faced criticism for the racial and colonial undertones in some of his works, reflecting the complex and often problematic views of his time. However, his contributions to the adventure and science fiction genres are undeniable, paving the way for modern speculative fiction.
Burroughs was also a pioneer in media franchising, leveraging his characters across various platforms, including comic strips, radio shows, and films. His innovative approach to intellectual property management set a precedent for future multimedia empires.
Edgar Rice Burroughs passed away on March 19, 1950, in Encino, California, but his legacy endures, with his works continuing to captivate and inspire new generations of readers and creators.visualizza meno