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Triplanetary

Written by E. E. (Edward Elmer) Smith

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Science FictionHuman-alien encountersExtraterrestrial beings

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About this book

"Triplanetary" by E. E. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of space travel, interplanetary conflict, and advanced technology, featuring the interplanetary liner "Hyperion" and its crew as they encounter a mysterious and dangerous enemy in the void of space. The story revolves around Captain Bradley, first officer Conway Costigan, and Clio Marsden, who must face an insidious plot involving pirates and toxic gas while battling to save themselves and their ship. The opening of the novel introduces the "Hyperion" as it travels through space, highlighted by a tense atmosphere caused by reports of pirate activity and unexplained disappearances of other ships. As Captain Bradley prepares for potential dangers, an unseen assailant sets off a deadly gas within the ship, incapacitating most of the crew and passengers. Costigan bravely struggles against time to save Clio and confront the threat, revealing the excitement and danger that lie ahead. The section sets the stage for a story filled with adventure, peril, and a battle against dark forces at play in the cosmos.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Triplanetary, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 9 hours
  • intermediate
  • epic
  • adventurous
  • thrilling

E. E. Smith's "Triplanetary" is a foundational space opera that plunges humanity into an epic, millennia-spanning cosmic conflict. Initially, the story follows Captain Bradley, Conway Costigan, and Clio Marsden aboard the interplanetary liner 'Hyperion' as they face a mysterious pirate attack involving a deadly gas. This immediate threat quickly expands to reveal an ancient, universal war between the benevolent Arisians and the malevolent Eddorians, forces vying for control over all sentient life. The novel traces humanity's nascent steps into interstellar travel and its unexpected pivotal role in this grand struggle, blending thrilling adventure with the revelation of vast, cosmic history and destiny. It lays the groundwork for the legendary Lensman series, showcasing humanity's intelligence and resilience against overwhelming odds.

“"From the moment man first looked at the stars, he dreamed of reaching them. Now, the stars have come to us, and with them, a war as old as time itself."”

Key themes

Interstellar Conflict & Good vs. Evil
This is the overarching theme, presenting a cosmic war between the benevolent Arisians and the malevolent Eddorians. Humanity is thrust into this ancient struggle, forced to confront absolute good and evil on a galactic scale, transforming from isolated species to a crucial player in the universe's destiny.
Technological Advancement & Super-Science
Smith is renowned for his 'super-science,' and 'Triplanetary' is filled with innovative technologies, from faster-than-light travel to energy weapons, force fields, and advanced communication. The theme explores humanity's capacity for scientific discovery and its application in both peaceful exploration and desperate warfare.
Evolution & Cosmic Destiny
The novel introduces the concept of the Arisians subtly guiding the evolution of intelligent life, particularly humanity, towards a specific purpose. This theme suggests a grand, predetermined plan for the universe, where certain species are destined to play pivotal roles in the cosmic balance.

Worth discussing

How does 'Triplanetary' establish the conventions of space opera, and which of these conventions are still prevalent in modern science fiction?

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