Who is the author of Tarzan? This question often piques the curiosity of readers who have been captivated by the adventures of the jungle hero. The answer to this query is Edgar Rice Burroughs, an American author whose imagination and storytelling prowess brought Tarzan to life in a series of novels that have captivated audiences for over a century.
Edgar Rice Burroughs was born on September 1, 1875, in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in a modest household and developed a love for adventure and storytelling from an early age. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Spanish-American War, Burroughs embarked on a career in journalism, which would eventually lead him to write his first novel, “Under the Moons of Mars,” in 1912. This science fiction novel marked the beginning of his illustrious writing career.
It was in 1918 that Burroughs penned “Tarzan of the Apes,” the first novel in the Tarzan series. The story revolves around the adventures of a young Englishman named John Clayton, who is raised by apes in the African jungle after being shipwrecked. Adopted by a gorilla named Kala, John grows up to become Tarzan, a man of the jungle who possesses superhuman strength and agility. The novel quickly gained popularity, and Burroughs went on to write 23 additional Tarzan novels, as well as several short stories and other works.
The character of Tarzan has become an iconic figure in popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations, including movies, television shows, and even a theme park. The character’s enduring appeal can be attributed to several factors, including his embodiment of the “white man’s burden” during the colonial era, his embodiment of the “noble savage” concept, and his embodiment of the American Dream.
Edgar Rice Burroughs passed away on March 19, 1950, but his legacy lives on through the character of Tarzan. The author’s ability to weave a compelling narrative with vivid descriptions of the African jungle and complex characters has ensured that Tarzan remains a timeless hero for readers around the world. So, the next time you find yourself immersed in the adventures of Tarzan, remember the man behind the myth: Edgar Rice Burroughs, the author of Tarzan.
