With few exceptions, five generations of critics have laid much of Burroughs inspiration at the doorsteps of Kipling, Haggard, and Wells. But Mr. Atamian points the arrow directly at two lesser known writersas the major sources, both direct and subliminal, of the Burroughs mind-fix. This is a major contribution to Burroughs scholarship as well as a good read. Atamian touched upon a wellspring of information and examples which call forth encomiums of prose! George T. McWhorter, Curator Burroughs Memorial Collection
Book Description
Today, Tarzan's universally popular appeal is as great as always. Scholars and fans are still intrigued with the problem of influence on ERB's imagination which created Tarzan. Research continues unabated and, in the opinion of Atamian, and with due respect, still misses the mark. The Origins of Tarzan solves the mystery of Tarzan's creation and reveals the major ideas which inspired Edgar Rice Burroughs to create one of the great hero archetypes of all times.