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The Use of Magic and Supernatural Powers in Fantasy Literature
Often imaginary or mythical worlds serve as the backdrop for fantasy novels which often include the use of magic and other supernatural powers. The Lord of the Rings trilogy by
J.R.R. Tolkien is a wonderful example of the genre. While there is often overlap between the horror and science fiction genres and the fantasy genre, it is usually possible to distinguish a fantasy novel by its overall theme. The events and actions which take place in fantasy books can not and do not take place in reality. Either magic, supernatural forces or divine intervention is used to explain the occurrence of these events. Often the entire setting of a fantasy novel is completely different from one which we might experience. The laws of that particular time and place will allow for the occurrence of magic or other things which may be foreign to our experience. Often one of the hallmarks of a fantasy novel is that the setting is affected by either magic or other abnormal forces to make it completely different from our own. While childrens literature is a completely separate genre than fantasy, we can often see the same principle applied in many of the books of Dr. Seuss. Some of the most well known fantasy works include Beowulf, The Odyssey, and many fairy tales. The fantasy genre will often include works that features heroes and heroines, magical creatures, and deadly monsters operating within a mysterious realm. While the fantasy genre is incredibly popular today, many are unaware that it stems way back to the time before Homer wrote the Odyssey. Some modern day indications of the popularity of the fantasy genre include the Harry Potter books, the Redwall series by Brian Jacques and the film adaptations of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Chances are the fantasy genre will remain popular as long as we have creative imaginations and dreams.
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