What are some characteristics of the first real epic fantasy story?

Another possible candidate could be George MacDonald. His works had elements of the fantastical and epic. But Tolkien's influence in terms of creating a fully - fledged, detailed epic fantasy world is so significant that when people think of the first real epic fantasy story, his name often comes up first.

One characteristic is that they often involve great sacrifice. In many epic love stories, the lovers are willing to give up their own comfort, status, or even life for the sake of their beloved. For example, in the story of Romeo and Juliet, they both sacrificed their lives for their love. Another characteristic is that they can withstand great obstacles. Whether it's family feuds, social differences, or distance, epic love overcomes these challenges. For instance, long - distance relationships in some real - life epic love stories have survived years of separation because of the strength of the love. Also, epic love stories usually have a profound impact on those around them or on society as a whole. The love story of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert influenced the culture and values of the Victorian era.

Character - driven plots were also common. In 'Middlegame', the relationship between Roger and Dodger was at the heart of the story. Their growth, their struggles, and their connection drove the narrative forward, even as the wider magical plot unfolded around them.

Well, often in real - life epic love stories, there's a deep emotional connection. Take the story of a couple who met during a difficult time in their lives. They were able to understand each other's pain and build a connection on that. Additionally, sacrifice is sometimes part of it. A soldier might sacrifice his career opportunities to be with his beloved. And then there's the aspect of growth. Couples in epic love stories often grow together, like a pair of entrepreneurs who learn from each other and build a successful business together while also strengthening their relationship.

Well, complex characters are a big part of famous epic fantasy novels. Take 'The Wheel of Time' for instance. There are so many characters with different motives and backstories. Epic battles are also a characteristic. In 'Mistborn', there are intense battles between the heroes and the forces of the evil lord. And these novels often have a sense of the epic, a grandiosity in their storytelling. Just like in 'The Name of the Wind', Kvothe's story is told on a large and epic scale.

New epic fantasy novels often have complex world - building. They create entire universes with their own rules, cultures, and histories. For example, in some, there are unique magic systems that are carefully thought out. Also, the characters are usually multi - dimensional. They have their own goals, fears, and flaws. Just like in 'The Priory of the Orange Tree', the main characters are complex and their relationships are intricate.

Complex character relationships are also common. In Japanese epic fantasy novels, characters may have deep - seated loyalties or rivalries within their groups or with other factions. This adds to the drama and the overall depth of the story. For instance, in many of these novels, a character's family or clan background greatly influences their actions and decisions.

One characteristic is the grand, elaborate settings. These novels often take place in vast, magical worlds like enchanted forests, floating islands, or ancient kingdoms. Another is the intense and passionate romances. The love stories are usually not simple, but full of drama, sacrifice, and longing. Also, there are often epic quests or battles. The characters are on a journey to save their world or achieve something great while also dealing with their romantic feelings.

Christian epic fantasy novels usually have a moral framework based on Christian values. The characters are often on a journey of self - discovery and spiritual growth. In many of these novels, there is a clear distinction between the forces of good, which are associated with God or a higher power, and the forces of evil. Also, they may incorporate elements from the Bible or Christian theology. For instance, some novels might use the idea of angels or demons in their stories. Moreover, these novels can also be a means of teaching Christian values in an engaging and imaginative way.

One of the main characteristics is the blend of the epic and the romantic. There is a large - scale story arc that might involve saving the world or a whole kingdom. At the same time, there are the tender moments of love between the characters. In terms of characters, they are usually complex individuals with their own goals and motives. In epic fantasy romance, the love story doesn't exist in a vacuum. It is intertwined with the larger plot. For example, in 'The Witcher' series of novels, Geralt's relationships are deeply affected by the political and magical situations around him, and his romances are part of a much bigger story about the fate of the world he lives in.