Plot summary (can contain spoilers!):
"Triplanetary," the first book in E.E. Smith's Lensman series, begins with the backstory of two powerful alien races: the Arisians and the Eddoreans. The Arisians, who are benevolent, seek to promote peace and order in the galaxy, while the Eddoreans are malevolent, using manipulation and force to subjugate lesser beings. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of interstellar conflict and the introduction of advanced technologies, including the titular Triplanetary, a collection of Earth, Mars, and Venus, which plays a key role in this struggle.
The story follows the character of a young man named Edward Compton, who finds himself embroiled in a cosmic battle as humanity is threatened by the Eddoreans. Through Compton's journey, readers are introduced to the complex political machinations and warfare that define the universe. As he navigates these challenges, he discovers that he possesses unique abilities, marking him as a potential candidate for the Lens, a powerful device endowed with the collective wisdom and experiences of the Arisian race.
As the plot progresses, Compton and his companions begin to understand the stakes of their battle against the Eddoreans. They are not merely fighting for survival but for the future of humanity and its place in the larger cosmic order. Intriguing elements such as telepathy, advanced weaponry, and the Lens itself create a richly layered narrative that combines science fiction with themes of morality and duty.
Throughout "Triplanetary," Smith weaves a tapestry of adventure, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge. The climactic encounters with Eddorean forces lead to profound revelations about the nature of good and evil, freedom and oppression. Ultimately, the story sets the stage for further exploration in the subsequent books of the Lensman series, promising an expansive universe filled with intrigue, heroism, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness.