What are some common themes in medieval fantasy stories that are not related to sex?

Answer 1

The theme of loyalty is very common. In medieval fantasy, characters often have to choose between different loyalties. In 'The Prydain Chronicles', Taran has to decide where his loyalty lies, whether with his friends, his master, or his own sense of honor. Another is the exploration of different cultures. In these stories, there are often multiple races or kingdoms with their own unique cultures. In 'The Earthsea Cycle', the different islands have their own languages, customs, and forms of magic. And the theme of self - discovery is also prevalent. Characters grow and learn about themselves through their adventures, as Ged does in 'The Wizard of Earthsea' when he faces his inner demons.

Answer 2

One common theme is the battle between good and evil. In many medieval fantasy stories, there are clear - cut lines between the forces of light and the forces of darkness. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', the Fellowship is on a quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat Sauron, the embodiment of evil. Another theme is the hero's journey. The protagonist often starts as an ordinary person in a small part of the world and through a series of trials and adventures, becomes a hero. In 'A Song of Ice and Fire', many characters like Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen follow their own versions of the hero's journey. Also, magic and the supernatural are important themes. Wizards, witches, and magical creatures are often part of these stories, like in 'The Chronicles of Narnia' where the magic of the wardrobe transports the children to Narnia.

Answer 3

Questing is a big theme. Characters embark on quests for various reasons, like to find a magical item or to save a kingdom. In 'The Dark Is Rising' sequence, Will Stanton is on a quest to find the six Signs that will help in the battle against the Dark. Another theme is the power of friendship. In many medieval fantasy stories, friends support each other through difficult times. In 'The Hobbit', Bilbo Baggins and his friends the dwarves rely on each other during their adventure to reclaim Erebor. And the idea of prophecy is also common. Prophecies often drive the plot forward, as in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' where there are many prophecies that the characters either believe in or try to avoid.