How do modern high fantasy novels differ from classic high fantasy novels?

Low fantasy medieval novels usually have less grand, world - altering magic compared to high fantasy. In low fantasy, magic is often more subdued, like a hedge witch's spells in a small village rather than epic spells that can reshape continents. For example, in 'A Game of Thrones', magic is rare and often mysterious, while in high fantasy like 'The Lord of the Rings', magic is more prevalent and powerful on a large scale.

Middle brow fantasy novels are different from high - brow and low - brow in several ways. High - brow fantasy often delves deep into complex themes, has elaborate writing styles, and may require more knowledge from the reader. Middle brow fantasy, like 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik, has an engaging story that is easy to follow but also contains some deeper ideas about power, sacrifice, and magic. Low - brow fantasy is more about entertainment value, often with simple plots and characters. Middle brow, on the other hand, has a more refined world - building and character development. It offers a more immersive experience than low - brow while being more accessible than high - brow.

Modern day fantasy novels often incorporate modern elements like technology, modern cities, and contemporary social issues. For example, in some modern day fantasy novels, you might see characters using cell phones while also casting spells. Traditional fantasy novels are usually set in more medieval - like or completely fictional worlds without these modern aspects.

They have influenced modern literature in multiple ways. The complex magic systems in classic high - fantasy novels, such as in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', have inspired new ways of thinking about power and its uses in stories. Moreover, the exploration of themes like good vs. evil, which is so prevalent in classic high fantasy, continues to be a major theme in modern works. And the idea of creating a mythology within a fictional world, as seen in 'The Chronicles of Narnia', has been emulated by many modern writers.

Classic fantasy romance novels are different from regular ones in several ways. Firstly, the settings in classic fantasy romance are often fantastical. They might be set in a world of wizards and dragons like in 'Eragon'. This is very different from the normal contemporary or historical settings in regular romance. Secondly, the characters in fantasy romance may have special abilities or be from different species. For instance, in 'Twilight' which has some elements of fantasy romance, there are vampires and werewolves. In regular romance, the characters are usually just ordinary humans. Thirdly, the plot in classic fantasy romance often involves quests or battles in addition to the love story, like in 'The Witcher' series.

Modern fantasy noir novels often incorporate elements of the supernatural or magic. For instance, in a traditional noir novel, the mystery might be centered around a crime in a normal, urban setting. But in a modern fantasy noir, like 'The Dresden Files', there could be a werewolf or a vampire involved in the crime.

Gritty fantasy novels often have a darker tone. While traditional fantasy might focus on heroism and a clear battle between good and evil, gritty ones have morally grey characters. For example, in 'A Song of Ice and Fire', characters like Jaime Lannister are not simply good or bad.

Eastern fantasy novels often draw on elements from eastern mythology, such as Chinese, Japanese or Korean myths. For example, they may feature concepts like qi cultivation, which is unique to eastern cultures. In contrast, western fantasy novels tend to be based more on European mythology, like Greek and Norse myths. Also, the magic systems in eastern fantasy novels can be more focused on internal spiritual power, while western ones might emphasize external spells or magic items.

Historical fantasy novels are set in a time period that has some basis in real history, while regular fantasy novels can be set in completely made - up worlds. For example, in a historical fantasy like 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell', the story is set in 19th - century England, so it has historical elements like the social structure and cultural norms of that time. Regular fantasy might create a world with no relation to our history at all. Another difference is that historical fantasy often uses real historical events or figures as a backdrop or inspiration. In contrast, regular fantasy is more free - form in its world - building and doesn't rely on historical context.

Psychological fantasy novels focus more on the inner workings of the characters' minds. For example, in a regular fantasy novel, the plot might be centered around a quest for a magical object. But in a psychological fantasy, like 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the emphasis is on the protagonist's psychological state as she descends into madness. It's about her internal struggle more than any external adventure.