early fantastical fiction

Early fantastical fiction often features elements like magic, mythical creatures, and otherworldly settings. For example, in works like 'The Faerie Queene', there are magical beings and enchanted lands. It also tends to have a sense of wonder and mystery that draws readers in.

One famous author of early fantastical fiction is Lewis Carroll. His 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' is full of fantastical elements, from the strange creatures to the topsy - turvy world. J.R.R. Tolkien also belongs to this group. His 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings' series are set in a richly imagined, fantastical world filled with elves, dwarves, and magic. Additionally, George MacDonald was an important figure, with his works often exploring the boundaries between the real and the fantastical.

Fantastical science fiction often features mind - bending settings. This could be entire planets made of different substances or universes with different physical laws. It also tends to have characters who are on grand adventures, either to save their own world or to discover the secrets of the cosmos. They usually face high - stakes challenges that test their intelligence and courage.

One of the best fantastical fictions is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It has a richly imagined world filled with diverse races like hobbits, elves, and dwarves. Another great one is 'Harry Potter' series by J.K. Rowling. It takes readers into a magical world of wizards, witches, and Hogwarts School. 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin also belongs to this category. It has a complex world full of political intrigue, magic, and fantastical creatures.

In the 'Game of Thrones' books (which also has a lot of fantastical elements), there is a complex hierarchy. The royalty like the Starks, Lannisters etc. are at the top in terms of political power. But there are also other forces. The Night's Watch has its own chain of command. And the magic - users like the Red Priests have their own sort of hierarchy within their religious - magical groups.

Virginia Woolf often challenges traditional gender roles in her fantastical works. In 'Orlando', the main character's gender transformation is a bold statement. This not only adds a fantastical element but also makes a profound statement about the fluidity of identity, both in terms of gender and self - perception, which is a characteristic that sets her fantastical fiction apart from more traditional works.

One of the most well - known is Jules Verne. His works like 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea' were full of fantastical elements and scientific speculations for his time. Another is H. G. Wells, with 'The War of the Worlds' being a classic in the genre.

The blend of the known and the unknown. In fantastical historical fiction, we get to see familiar historical settings like ancient Rome or Victorian England, but with a twist of magic or the supernatural. It's like adding a new layer of mystery to the past.

Sure. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is a well - known fantastical historical fiction. It's set in a medieval monastery and involves mystery and some elements that border on the supernatural. Then there's 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. While it's more firmly rooted in historical fact, it has a certain air of the fantastical in how it brings the Tudor court to life. Also, 'The Invisible Library' series by Genevieve Cogman. It's set across different historical - like worlds and has a librarian - spy dealing with magic and chaos.

One way to start exploring best fantastical fiction is to pick up the most well - known ones like 'The Lord of the Rings'. It's a great entry point as it has a very accessible story despite its complex world. Another way is to ask for recommendations from friends who are into this genre. They can suggest books based on your interests.