What’s In A Genre: Epic Fantasy
Diving back into my ongoing exploration of literary genres, I'm shifting gears from my dystopian project to delve into my other current endeavor, Games of Fire. Embarking on this journey into the realm of epic fantasy with the first installment, Spark of Defiance, I find myself pondering: what truly defines this genre, and why does it aptly encompass both Games of Fire and my previous trilogy, Rise of the Fifth Order? Reflecting on my earlier days as a fledgling author, I vividly recall my earnest quest to validate my understanding of epic fantasy, particularly when preparing to unveil Born of Water. Now, amidst crafting a fresh trilogy within this beloved genre, I feel compelled to revisit and revamp the criteria that distinguish a tale as epic fantasy.
What Makes A Fantasy Story Epic?
Back in 2012, understanding what defined epic fantasy seemed straightforward. But fast forward to today, and the waters have certainly muddied. Wikipedia seems to sidestep the issue, opting instead to discuss high fantasy. Yet, in my view, there's a clear distinction between epic and high fantasy, although some stories may blur the lines between the two.
Let's start by unpacking high fantasy—it's a realm filled with the classic elements: swords, castles, magic, and a plethora of fantastical beings like elves and dragons, all nestled within a world of imagination. That's my take, but I'm open to other interpretations. Now, onto epic fantasy—it's no small feat. These novels are sprawling, often spanning trilogies or series, sometimes even hefty standalone works topping 70,000-100,000 words. Expect grand battles and earth-shattering conflicts, not just skirmishes between kingdoms but wars that redefine worlds. Characters? You'll need a scorecard to keep track, especially with the revolving door of life and death. And let's not forget the journey—it's epic in every sense, spanning vast landscapes and emotional upheavals. Love found and lost, friendships forged and broken, heroes evolving against insurmountable odds. It's big, it's bold, it's epic.
Conclusion
When delving into the realm of epic fantasy, definitions can vary widely. While some opt for a straightforward approach, others, like N.K. Jemison, take a deeper dive. In her insightful blog post, she references J.E. Johnson's succinct yet comprehensive outline found on an Amazon forum. According to Johnson, epic fantasy embodies the grand scale of a great evil, often wielded by multiple minions to test the protagonist's mettle. This narrative typically spans across multiple volumes, woven together by a central quest that demands fulfillment. At its heart lies a main character, embarking on a perilous journey where they confront adversaries, evolve, and undergo transformation, whether for better or worse. Furthermore, the journey isn't confined to mere physical landscapes; it's a psychological odyssey, urging the protagonist to confront inner demons and external threats alike. Surrounding the protagonist is a diverse cast of supporting characters, offering companionship, guidance, and sometimes, the ultimate sacrifice, in the face of adversity.
But let's not dismiss simplicity; after all, as the saying goes, sometimes less is more. Despite the nuances, it's hard to argue against the essence of epic fantasy encapsulated in Johnson's definition. Yet, the discourse continues, with some asserting that a series format isn't an absolute requirement. And what about the distinction between epic and high fantasy? While the line may blur at times, epic fantasy tends to embrace a broader scope, encompassing vast landscapes, intricate plots, and profound character development, while high fantasy often focuses on a more contained setting with a clear divide between good and evil. Ultimately, the debate persists, inviting enthusiasts to explore and define these fantastical worlds on their terms.
