American author
Robert E. Howard
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Who is Robert E. Howard?
Robert E. Howard was an American author who is best known for creating the character Conan the Barbarian. He was born on January 22, 1906, and passed away on June 11, 1936.
What type of literature did Robert E. Howard write?
Robert E. Howard primarily wrote pulp fiction and is considered one of the pioneers of the sword and sorcery genre. He created numerous characters and stories set in different worlds, often featuring action-packed adventures and fantastical elements.
What are some of Robert E. Howard's most famous works?
Some of Robert E. Howard's most famous works include the Conan the Barbarian stories, which gained significant popularity and have been adapted into movies, comics, and games. He also created characters such as Solomon Kane, Bran Mak Morn, and Kull of Atlantis, among others.
Where was Robert E. Howard born?
Robert E. Howard was born in Peaster, Texas, a small community in the United States.
What was Howard's family background?
Robert E. Howard's father, Dr. Isaac Mordecai Howard, was a physician, and his mother, Hester Jane Ervin Howard, was a housewife. He had two siblings, a brother named Harold and a sister named Alla.
Did Robert E. Howard have a successful writing career?
Although Robert E. Howard's writing career was relatively short, he did achieve some success during his lifetime. His works were published in a variety of pulp magazines, and he developed a dedicated fan base. However, his full potential as a writer was never fully realized due to his premature death.
How did Robert E. Howard die?
Robert E. Howard died by suicide on June 11, 1936, at the age of 30. He entered his car and shot himself in the head. The exact reasons for his suicide remain unclear, but it is believed that personal issues and depression played a significant role.
Did Robert E. Howard create any characters besides Conan?
Yes, Robert E. Howard created several other memorable characters besides Conan. Some of these include Solomon Kane, a Puritan swordsman; Bran Mak Morn, a Pictish king; and Kull of Atlantis, a prehistoric warrior. Howard's diverse character creations showcase his versatility as a writer.
Has Robert E. Howard's work been adapted into other forms of media?
Yes, Robert E. Howard's work has been adapted into various forms of media. Conan the Barbarian, in particular, has been adapted into movies, television series, comics, and video games, making the character a cultural icon. Other Howard characters, such as Solomon Kane and Bran Mak Morn, have also been adapted into films.
How has Robert E. Howard's work influenced modern fantasy literature?
Robert E. Howard's impact on modern fantasy literature is significant. His creation of Conan the Barbarian laid the foundation for the sword and sorcery genre, which remains popular today. His dynamic storytelling, strong characters, and vivid world-building have inspired many other authors, helping shape the fantasy genre as we know it.