Essays
The first truly modern fantasy work was The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R Tolkien. That’s not a statement that very many critical theorists can dispute. But how did Tolkien make fantasy “modern,” and what does it mean for us today?
One has a gritty, realistic world where ordinary people unite to create positive change against adversity. The other has idealistic landscapes where noble heroes triumph over darkness with virtue and courage. How do these subgenres resonate with contemporary audiences, offer empowerment, escapism, and a profound sense of community in an often fragmented world?