Robert E. Howard, an American writer born in 1906, is best known for creating the iconic character Conan the Barbarian. His work in pulp fiction has left a lasting impact on literature and pop culture, influencing generations of writers and creators. Despite his short life, Howard's legacy continues to thrive, supported by dedicated fans and organizations like the Robert E. Howard Foundation.
Early Life and Career
Robert E. Howard was born in Peaster, Texas, and spent much
of his life in Cross Plains. From a young age, Howard was drawn to adventure fiction, dreaming of becoming a writer. His early years were marked by frequent moves due to his father's work as a traveling physician. These experiences, combined with his mother's influence, shaped Howard's intellectual growth and love for literature.
Howard's writing career began in earnest at the age of 23, when he started publishing stories in various magazines. His work spanned multiple genres, but he is most celebrated for his contributions to the sword and sorcery subgenre. Howard's stories, particularly those featuring Conan, were published in the magazine Weird Tales, where they gained a devoted readership.
The Creation of Conan the Barbarian
Conan the Barbarian is perhaps Howard's most enduring creation. The character first appeared in Weird Tales in 1932 and quickly became a sensation. Howard's Conan stories are set in the fictional Hyborian Age, a world rich with history, magic, and adventure. This setting allowed Howard to explore themes of civilization versus barbarism, a recurring motif in his work.
Conan's popularity has led to numerous adaptations, including films, comic books, and video games. The character's influence extends beyond Howard's original stories, inspiring countless writers and artists to explore similar themes and settings. Conan's enduring appeal is a testament to Howard's skill as a storyteller and his ability to create compelling, larger-than-life characters.
Howard's Enduring Influence
Despite his untimely death at the age of 30, Robert E. Howard's legacy continues to grow. His work has been the subject of scholarly analysis, and his stories remain popular with readers around the world. The Robert E. Howard Foundation, established in 2006, works to promote Howard's legacy through publications and events.
Howard's influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary fantasy writers, who draw inspiration from his vivid storytelling and imaginative worlds. His impact on the genre of sword and sorcery is rivaled only by J.R.R. Tolkien's contributions to high fantasy. As new generations discover Howard's work, his legacy as a pioneer of fantasy fiction remains secure.
