What's Happening?
A new edition of Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel 'The Monster Men' and its authorized sequel, 'The Return of the Monster Men' by Joshua Reynolds, have been released. 'The Monster Men,' originally published as 'A Man Without a Soul' in 1913 and later in book
form in 1929, tells the story of Professor Arthur Maxon's attempts to create artificial life on a remote East Indies island. His experiments result in a series of 'monster men,' with Number Thirteen appearing to be the perfect human. The plot involves kidnappings, pirates, and a complex identity reveal for Number Thirteen, who is eventually discovered to be an amnesiac named Townsend Harper Jr. The sequel, 'The Return of the Monster Men,' is set 13 months after the original and explores the fate of the original Number Thirteen and new creations on the island, involving British soldiers and a new antagonist, Lt. Arkwright.
Why It's Important?
This release is significant for fans of classic pulp fiction and the works of Edgar Rice Burroughs, offering both a re-evaluation of an early work and a continuation of its narrative. The original novel, often compared to Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein,' explores themes of artificial life, identity, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation, which remain relevant in contemporary discussions about biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The authorized sequel provides a modern interpretation and expansion of Burroughs' universe, potentially introducing new readers to the genre and demonstrating the enduring appeal of these adventure stories. The review highlights the evolution of storytelling within the pulp tradition and how modern authors engage with established literary legacies.
What's Next?
Readers interested in the genre can explore both the original 'The Monster Men' and its sequel, 'The Return of the Monster Men.' The review encourages checking out the comic-strip adaptation of 'The Monster Men' available on the ERB Inc. website. The continued publication and adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs' works suggest a sustained interest in his literary contributions, potentially leading to further sequels, adaptations, or scholarly analyses of his influence on science fiction and adventure literature. The engagement of authors like Joshua Reynolds in expanding these universes indicates a trend of contemporary writers building upon classic narratives.
Beyond the Headlines
The story delves into the enduring fascination with the creation of artificial life and the 'mad scientist' trope, a theme that has permeated literature and popular culture for centuries. Burroughs' 'Monster Men' predates many modern science fiction concepts but touches upon fundamental questions about humanity, consciousness, and the nature of creation. The comparison to 'Frankenstein' underscores the timelessness of these ethical dilemmas. The sequel's exploration of new antagonists and the continuation of Maxon's work raises questions about the long-term consequences of scientific endeavors and the potential for unintended outcomes. This narrative also reflects the historical context of pulp fiction, often featuring exotic locales and adventurous plots, which shaped early 20th-century popular imagination.
