Robert E. Howard
Biography
Robert E. Howard (1906–1936) was an American author who created Conan the Barbarian and is regarded as the father of the sword-and-sorcery genre. Born in Peaster, Texas, he spent most of his life in Cross Plains, writing prolifically for pulp magazines. His Conan stories, beginning with "The Phoenix on the Sword" (1932) in Weird Tales, introduced a muscular, violent, and atmospheric brand of fantasy that influenced the entire genre. Howard also created Solomon Kane, Kull of Atlantis, and numerous Western, horror, and boxing stories. He died by suicide at age 30, leaving a vast body of work.
Common themes in Robert E. Howard's work
Sword and sorcery
A recurring theme throughout Robert E. Howard's writing.
Conan the Barbarian
A recurring theme throughout Robert E. Howard's writing.
Pulp fiction
A recurring theme throughout Robert E. Howard's writing.
Fantasy pioneer
A recurring theme throughout Robert E. Howard's writing.
Books
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Why Robert E. Howard is still read today
Howard created Conan the Barbarian and founded the sword-and-sorcery genre. His visceral, atmospheric stories continue to influence fantasy fiction, comics, films, and games worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Robert E. Howard?
Robert E. Howard (1906–1936) was an American author who created Conan the Barbarian and founded the sword-and-sorcery fantasy genre.
What are his major works?
The Conan stories and his other short fiction. Both collections are available free on TextStack.
Did he only write fantasy?
No, he wrote prolifically across genres including horror, Westerns, boxing stories, and historical adventure.
Where can I read Howard free?
TextStack offers Howard’s fiction to read free online.
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