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Fantasy Genre: information from our library science students
Fantasy as a Genre
Fantasy is a genre most often thought of as containing magic and fairies, sorcery and dragons. While this is one example of fantasy, fantasy novels are defined as novels that “explore magical worlds” (Wyatt, N. & Saricks, J. G., p. 124). The history of modern fantasy emerged in the 18th century influenced by speculative fiction, with Tolkien considered to have written the first modern fantasy novel with his publication of The Hobbit.
Like sci-fi it falls under the category of speculative fiction, exploring the unknown, often focusing on legend and lore without having to adhere to earth's natural laws. Some characteristics of fantasy are plots featuring unrealistic characters and events. Fantasy is written to be entertaining and can overlap with genres like speculative fiction, mystery, and romance as well as many others as fantasy is “a true mixing bowl of crossover appeal” (Wyatt, N. & Saricks, J. G., p.146).
Tropes and Themes
Over time, common themes and tropes have evolved as standards of the genre. As the genre typically features new and created worlds, the setting itself can fall into these themes/tropes. Fantasy works are often based in ancient/medieval type locations, complete with taverns and locations of old (hosting powerful artifacts or books) (Barron, n.d. and Brewer, 2023). This world will feature fantastical elements such as magical creatures, magical artifacts, and magic itself (Barron, n.d. and Brewer, 2023). On occasion a created language may feature in the world-building (Self-Publishing Resources, 2022).
Plot themes/tropes will revolve around some type of quest or battle that must be completed/won by the main protagonists (Barron, n.d. and Self-Publishing Resources, 2022). The main protagonists themselves will typically be an unlikely hero or band of heroes (bonus points for an unknown destiny), under the guide and training of a mentor (Barron, n.d., Brewer, 2023, and Self-Publishing Resources, 2022). The protagonists will be embroiled in the common literary battle of good versus evil, frequently against an overall tyrant/dark lord ((Barron, n.d. and Brewer, 2023).
Some more story specific themes/tropes include:
- Damsel in Distress
- Antagonist turned Ally
- Believed defeat of the heroes
- Arrival of back-up and a price for winning.
(Brewer, 2023).
Appeals of the Genre
The appealing elements of the fantasy genre are immense. Fantastical stories based on myth and cultural folklore existed since the beginning of humanity. Classic examples of this genre include The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien and The Once and Future King by TH White. Since fantasy novels can occur at other times with magical creatures, they are not restrained by our “rules of reality” (Pagan, 2020). Readers are often drawn to the worldbuilding aspects and enjoy immersing themselves into the magical realms created. Archetypes are often used in fantasy, as are depictions between good and evil.
Another appealing aspect is the detailed use of maps, family trees, unique languages, and illustrations. Fantasy novels take time to introduce worlds altered from reality and invite the reader to expand their imagination while enjoying the characters’ adventures. While many earlier fantasy novels showcased the hero’s struggle for mastery, the shift towards depicting female protagonists in the fantasy genre has expanded in modern times.
Contact us
These lists and genre information are brought to you by the MLIS 7998 students in our Genres for Adult Readers class in the Master in Library and Information Science program. Thank you for sending in such good books, materials, and information. I hope you had a good time with this project!
If any material listed is problematic or you would like to suggest future recommendations and themes please contact Crystal Miller at crrichardson@valdosta.edu! They would love feedback, or just to talk about books!
