What roles do bears play in fantasy stories?

Gods in fantasy fiction also act as sources of conflict. Their rivalries and power struggles can spill over into the mortal realm, causing wars and chaos among humans, elves, dwarves, etc. For example, if two gods are fighting for control over a particular region, their followers will also be at odds.

They play leadership roles. They are in charge of their kingdoms, making laws and leading their people in times of war and peace.

Guns can play the role of a game - changer. They might be the only thing that can harm a certain powerful and nearly invincible creature in a fantasy world.

Farmers often play the role of the connectors to the natural world in fantasy fiction. Their daily work with the land and animals makes them attuned to any changes in nature. This could be important when there are magical imbalances or threats. For instance, if the magic in the forest is fading, the farmers might notice the trees near their fields are withering before anyone else. They also can be the victims of larger conflicts, like when armies march through their lands and destroy their crops.

Many times, halflings are the ones who provide comic relief. Their small size and sometimes naive ways can lead to humorous situations. However, they can also be heroes. For instance, they might use their stealth and intelligence to outwit enemies that are much larger and stronger. They are also known to be great storytellers, passing down their culture and history through tales. In some novels, they may be the ones who hold important secrets or knowledge that is crucial to the overall plot.

Doctors in fantasy fiction often serve as a bridge between the normal and the magical in terms of health. They are usually highly respected. Sometimes, they are the only ones who understand the complex relationship between a character's physical and magical ailments. They may also be involved in researching new ways to combat magical threats to health, like developing antidotes to poisons created by evil wizards.

They often serve as minions or servants of powerful dark forces. There are stories where swarms of flies are associated with evil wizards, doing their bidding and causing chaos. Additionally, insects can be the source of magical powers. A character might gain the ability to fly by consuming a special type of insect.

One major role is as a source of conflict. Gods might fight among themselves for dominance or resources, and mortals get caught in the crossfire. For example, two rival gods could be vying for control over a certain magical artifact, and their war spills over into the mortal realm. Another role is as a guiding force. Some gods give quests or prophecies to heroes, which drives the plot forward. They can also be a symbol of hope or fear for the characters in the story.

Animals can play the role of a guide. In some adventure stories, an animal might lead the protagonist through a difficult terrain or a magical land. For example, in 'The Jungle Book', Mowgli is guided by the panther Bagheera and the bear Baloo.

Mothers in teen fantasy fiction are often a link to the protagonist's past or their true identity. They may hold secrets that are crucial for the teen's journey. Sometimes, they are absent physically but their influence still looms large. Their values and teachings can shape how the teen character behaves and makes decisions in the fantasy world. In some stories, they might sacrifice themselves for their children's future, adding a tragic and heroic element to the plot.