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Types of Literature - Fantasy |
Fantasy opens doors to worlds of imagination not found in the real world. Fantasy helps readers develop imagination, flexible thinking and speculation while providing new insights in the world of reality.
Fantasy suspends scientific explanation and natural laws. It contains some element not found in the natural world. By altering one or more characteristics of everyday reality, authors allow readers to explore alternate realities.
Some fantasy is pure lighthearted fun. Magic, wit, wordplay and/or humor are used to reveal the absurdity or comedy in the human condition. Other fantasies consider a deeper reality and external truth, probing inner journeys and following the path of a hero. Important themes are explored: the struggle between good and evil, what it means to be human, the consequences of pride, faithfulness and unfaithfulness.
Good fantasy tells an interesting story, has well-developed characters, an engaging plot and an identifiable theme. Authors manipulate story elements - particularly setting, character and time - to create a fantasy world. If successful, readers willingly suspend their disbelief.
Common characteristics:
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Author creates a new world or gives extraordinary experiences in the real world. |
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Reader enters imaginary realms of possibility. |
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Suspension of disbelief - relies on internal consistencies of plot, character and setting. |
The roots of fantasy grow directly from folklore. Modern fantasy builds on and derives strength from traditions established in folktales, fables, ancient myths and legends from the oral tradition. Ancient tales were shaped through cultural belief and the voice of the storyteller. Modern fantasy is shaped by the author’s vision and stylistic choices.
When evaluating fantasy ask yourself or your students these questions:
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Is the fantasy world believable within the context of the story? |
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Is there an original and imaginative concept? |
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How does the magic work? Is it consistent? |
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Can you visualize a well-established setting? |
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Are the characters true to themselves? Does their motivation make sense in context? |
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This page was last updated on January 25, 2006.