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The Thomistic Institute
Truth, Goodness, and Fantasy Literature | Fr. Philip-Neri Reese, O.P.
Jan 1, 2025
Fr. Philip-Neri Reese, O.P., a Dominican Friar and philosophy professor, delves into the evolution of fantasy literature, highlighting its darker grimdark subgenre. He compares Tolkien's noble narratives with George R.R. Martin's morally complex storytelling. The discussion explores Thomistic thought, examining truth and goodness within these works. Fr. Reese also articulates the doctrine of transcendentals, shedding light on their unity and significance in literature. Ultimately, he critiques the orientation of grimdark fantasy in relation to higher spiritual truths.
54:46
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Quick takeaways
- Fantasy literature has evolved into various subgenres, exemplifying its versatility and the changing preferences of contemporary readers.
- Grimdark fantasy, characterized by nihilism and despair, is philosophically less aligned with goodness compared to traditional fantasy narratives.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Fantasy Literature
Fantasy literature has diversified significantly since the eras of J.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, branching into numerous subgenres. These subgenres can be categorized based on different criteria, such as the degree of magic present or the settings in which the stories unfold. For instance, high fantasy features extensive magical elements, whereas low fantasy incorporates minimal magic into its narrative. The proliferation of subgenres, including urban fantasy, magical realism, and grimdark fantasy, highlights the genre's versatility and the changing tastes of readers, indicating a dynamic literary landscape.
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