 |
| A visual model for analyzing fiction and nonfiction texts. |
After the readings this week, I wonder if a similar continuum could be useful in viewing devices used specifically in fantasy literature to help classify sub-genres. One continuum would describe plot settings. One end would be other-worldly high fantasy where cultures, languages, governments, etc. are made up to the other end being enchanted realism where "The settings in these books are real, they do have an aura of enchantment about them" (Egoff 8). While these continuums are book-ended by sub-genres, I believe it would allow individual evaluations and for sub-genres to blend more easily between "completely theoretical" and "realistic with a touch of the unbelievable" even with the idea that all fantasy can be a "true reflection of reality" (Egoff 1).
other-wordly setting <------------------------------------------------------------>realistic or "Earthly" setting
plot settings
epic scope<----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------->focused event
scope of time frame
adult<---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------->children
reader audience
oracle voice<-------------------------------school boy voice----------------------------------------->fool voice author voice (Yolen 168)
multiple/complex perspectives<---------------------------------------------------->singular/ flat perspective
character perspectives
superhuman<---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------->non human
characters
historical<-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------->futuristic
time period
This is by no means a complete or final listing of elements to discuss. I think it gives a starting point though in discussing fantasy literature specifically. A continuum allows for a more individualized look at each fantasy literature piece. It opens debatable discussion about the literature on elements and where specific pieces fall within.
Citations
Kiefer, B. and M. Wilson. Nonfiction literature for children: old assumptions and new directions. Handbook of Research on Children's and Young Adult Literature. Wolf, S. et al. New York. Routledge. 2011. 9780415965064. pp. 290-299.
Egoff, Sheila A. The Matter of fantasy. In Worlds within: children's fantasy from the Middle Ages to today. Chicago. American Library Association. 1988. Ch. 1. pp. 1-20.
Yolen, Jane. Turtles all the way down. In Only connect: readings on children's literature. Egof, Sheila A ed. New York. Oxford University Press. 1996. pp. 164-174.
