Edison's Conquest of Mars

by Garrett P Serviss

Overview

In "Edison's Conquest of Mars," Garrett P. Serviss presents a pioneering work of science fiction that intertwines adventure, technology, and speculative imagination. Published in 1898 as a sequel to H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds," Serviss's narrative introduces the brilliant inventor Thomas Edison as he undertakes a cosmic journey to Mars. The novel is distinguished by its elaborate descriptions and a sense of scientific plausibility, blending romance with a strong critique of imperialism, reflecting the zeitgeist of the late 19th century—a period marked by industrial progress and burgeoning technological optimism. Serviss constructs an interplanetary saga that not only entertains but also incites reflection on humanity’s place in the universe. Garrett P. Serviss, an American author and astronomer, was significantly influenced by the burgeoning interest in astronomy and science during his lifetime. His deep fascination with both the unknown cosmos and technological advancements is vividly embodied in the character of Edison, a symbol of human ingenuity. Serviss's background in journalism and science informs his ability to weave intricate plots with undercurrents of social commentary, further enriching the reader's experience. "Edison's Conquest of Mars" is a must-read for those intrigued by early science fiction and the philosophical questions it raises. As a compelling fusion of scientific exploration and narrative adventure, this book serves as a vibrant window into the literary imagination of a bygone era, making it an essential addition to any enthusiast's collection.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781481170604
Publisher:	CreateSpace Publishing
Publication date:	12/04/2012
Pages:	158
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.37(d)

About the Author

Garrett Putnam Serviss (1851 - 1929) was an American astronomer, popularizer of astronomy and early science fiction writer. Serviss was born in upstate New York and majored in science at Cornell University. He took a law degree at Columbia University but never worked as an attorney. Instead, in 1876 he joined the staff of The New York Sun newspaper, working as a journalist until 1892 under editor Charles Dana. Serviss showed a talent for explaining scientific details in a way that made them clear to the ordinary reader, leading Andrew Carnegie to invite him to deliver The Urania Lectures in 1894 on astronomy, cosmology, geology and related matters. With Carnegie's financial backing, these lectures were illustrated with magic lantern slides and other effects to show eclipses, presumed lunar landscapes and much more. Serviss toured the United States for over two years delivering these lectures, then settled down to become a popular speaker in the New York area. He also wrote a syndicated newspaper column devoted to astronomy and other sciences and wrote frequently for the leading magazines of the day. Serviss' favorite topic was astronomy and of the fifteen books he wrote, eight are devoted to it. He worked with Max and Dave Fleischer on The Einstein Theory of Relativity (1923), a short silent film released in connection with one of Serviss' books. He also wrote six works of fiction in his lifetime, all of which would today be classified as science fiction. Five of these were novels, and one was a short story. In his private life, Serviss was an enthusiastic mountain climber. He described his reaching the summit of the Matterhorn at the age of 43 as part of an effort "to get as far away from terrestrial gravity as possible."