THE BIG SIX #6: TARZAN OF THE APES

First image ever of Tarzan of the Apes, October 1912 issue of All-Story Magazine. Tarzan character Copyright Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc.

Tarzan of the Apes is ancient classical mythology in a modern form. His creator, Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875-1950), received a broad, classical education which is obvious in the Tarzan books. Burroughs's language, narrative style, and use of grammar parallel those of ancient Greek and Latin literary technique. The themes he addresses also parallel those of the classical authors. Tarzan's origins are to be found in the mythological heroes of antiquity, notably Romulus and Remus (raised by wolves instead of apes), and Odysseus; these components were combined by Burroughs with elements from American Indian traditions (ERB had been a real cowboy).