The Barbarians

"The Barbarians" by Tom Godwin is a science fiction story about a clash between two civilizations. It follows the events on the planet Tharnar when two Terran explorers, Bob Randall and Virginia, are captured by the Tharnarians, an advanced but stagnant society. Facing execution, the Terrans embody a youthful and vigorous race, which is very different to the complacent Tharnarians, who have long forgotten war. As Tal-Karanth, the leader of Tharnar, considers their fate, he begins to realize that his civilization's true enemy is its own decay, not the so-called barbaric Terrans. In the end, Tal-Karanth chooses to spare the Terrans, signaling a chance for renewal for Tharnar, suggesting a blending of vigor between cultures. The story finishes as the Terrans continue their mission, creating a sense of hope for the chance of growth for both races.