John Norman

John Norman is an American author, born on June 3, 1931, best known for his science fiction novels in the Gor series. His real name is John Frederick Lange Jr. but he has used several pseudonyms throughout his career, including John Norman, John Lange, and Don Pendleton.

Early Life and Education

John Norman was born in Chicago, Illinois. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nebraska and later pursued his postgraduate studies at the University of Southern California and Yale University, where he earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy.

Career

Norman began his writing career in the early 1960s. His first novel, Tarnsman of Gor, was published in 1966 and marked the beginning of the Gor series, which now includes over 30 novels. The Gor series is known for its combination of philosophy, adventure, and science fiction, and has been both praised and criticized for its exploration of complex themes such as power, freedom, and slavery.

In addition to the Gor series, Norman has written several other novels in different genres, including the Ghost Dance series, which explores Native American history and culture, and the Time Slave series, which delves into the realm of time travel.

Controversy

Norman's work, particularly the Gor series, has been the subject of controversy due to its explicit sexual content and its portrayal of women. Critics argue that the series promotes sexism and misogyny, while others defend it as a exploration of human sexuality and gender roles.

Legacy

Despite the controversy surrounding his work, Norman's influence on the science fiction genre is undeniable. His Gor series has inspired a dedicated fan base and has been translated into multiple languages.

See Also

• Science fiction
• Gor
• Philosophy in literature