How can we describe the fantasy genre?
Fantasy is a literary genre that features magical or supernatural elements beyond the boundaries of the real world. Fantasy books often include invented worlds, mythical beings, and epic quests. Readers enjoy fantasy for its ability to spark imagination, challenge reality, and create unforgettable adventures.
When was the genre born?
The roots of fantasy literature go back to ancient myths, legends, and folklore. Stories of gods, heroes, and magical creatures can be found in nearly every culture. As a distinct genre, fantasy began to take shape in the 19th century with works like George MacDonald’s novels and later J.R.R. Tolkien’s monumental contribution with The Lord of the Rings in the 20th century.
What are the most important characteristics of the fantasy genre?
Key features of fantasy literature include worldbuilding, the use of magic or supernatural forces, epic quests, and the presence of good versus evil. Characters often undergo heroic journeys, and the narrative explores timeless themes like courage, destiny, friendship, and sacrifice.
What are some notable old fantasy books?
Some of the earliest influential fantasy works include George MacDonald’s "Phantastes" (1858) and William Morris’s "The Well at the World’s End" (1896). These authors and works laid the foundation for modern fantasy. Later, authors like Lord Dunsany and E.R. Eddison also contributed significantly to the genre’s development.
What are the most popular fantasy books of the 20th century?
The 20th century gave us iconic works such as J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings," C.S. Lewis’s "The Chronicles of Narnia," and Ursula K. Le Guin’s "Earthsea" series. These books shaped the tastes of generations and made fantasy literature part of modern culture.
What are the most popular fantasy books of the 21th century?
In the 21st century, fantasy reached new heights of popularity. J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter" series became a global phenomenon. George R.R. Martin’s "A Song of Ice and Fire" inspired the hit TV series "Game of Thrones." Authors like Brandon Sanderson ("Mistborn," "Stormlight Archive") and Patrick Rothfuss ("The Name of the Wind") have also gained international acclaim.
What are the most notable stories and characters in the fantasy genre?
Fantasy literature is filled with unforgettable characters and stories. Frodo Baggins’s journey to destroy the One Ring, Harry Potter’s fight against Voldemort, and Daenerys Targaryen’s rise in Westeros are just a few examples. These characters embody resilience, hope, and the timeless battle between good and evil.
Why buy fantasy books at Prospero?
Here are a few reasons why shopping at Prospero is the best choice:
- Wide selection
- Hungarian-based, easily accessible guarantee
- Care and kindness: if you have any questions, you can ask us directly and we will be happy to help
- Availability check: You can easily verify if a title is in stock at our online bookshop, and even if it isn’t, you can still place an order or contact us first.
- Competitive prices: As a leading importer, we can offer very favorable prices. If you order books from us – even those not yet released – the outstandingly low prices will make up for the short wait.
