The Coming of Conan
"The Coming of Conan the Cimmerian" is a collection of stories by Robert E. Howard that introduces readers to Conan the Barbarian, one of the most iconic characters in fantasy literature. The book compiles some of the earliest tales of Conan’s adventures, set in the fictional Hyborian Age. These stories span Conan’s career as a warrior, thief, mercenary, and king, showcasing his physical prowess, cunning intellect, and indomitable spirit.
- "The Phoenix on the Sword": The story where Conan, now a king, faces a conspiracy to overthrow him and encounters mystical forces.
- "The Tower of the Elephant": Conan, as a young thief, seeks a legendary gem guarded by a formidable sorcerer.
- "The Scarlet Citadel": Conan battles political intrigue and dark sorcery to reclaim his throne.
- "Queen of the Black Coast": Conan's romance with the pirate queen Bêlit and their adventures on the high seas.
Each tale is a fast-paced adventure filled with sword fights, dark sorcery, and daring exploits. Howard’s writing is vivid and dynamic, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Conan is a complex and compelling character. His strength, intelligence, and relentless drive for survival and freedom make him a fascinating hero. Howard’s portrayal of Conan combines primal savagery with a certain code of honor, making him more than just a brute warrior.
Howard’s Hyborian Age is a meticulously crafted world, blending elements of historical and mythical cultures. The diverse settings—from ancient cities and haunted ruins to exotic jungles and desolate wastelands—add depth and richness to the stories.
"The Coming of Conan the Cimmerian" is foundational to the sword and sorcery subgenre. Howard’s work has inspired countless authors and continues to be a significant influence in fantasy literature.
Howard excels at creating a vivid and immersive atmosphere. His descriptions of the Hyborian Age are richly detailed, making the world of Conan come alive.
The stories are well-structured, with a constant sense of tension and impending danger that keeps readers engaged.
Despite being written in the early 20th century, the themes of adventure, heroism, and survival resonate with modern readers.
Some readers may find certain tropes and plot devices repetitive across the stories. The formulaic nature of Conan’s adventures, while entertaining, can become predictable.
The stories reflect some of the racial and cultural attitudes of Howard’s time, which can be jarring or offensive to contemporary readers.
While Conan is a well-developed character, many secondary characters serve primarily as plot devices and lack depth.
"The Coming of Conan the Cimmerian" holds a significant place in the lore of the fantasy genre. Howard's creation of the Hyborian Age features meticulous world-building, offering a different, rich, and immersive fantasy landscape. Howard's tales of Conan have carved out a niche in the Sword and Sorcery subgenre, influencing numerous works of fiction, comics, and films.
Overall, "The Coming of Conan the Cimmerian" is a seminal work that continues to captivate readers with its thrilling tales and larger-than-life hero. Its combination of action, rich world-building, and a timeless protagonist make it a must-read for fans of fantasy literature.