Midnights Children is a magic realist novel as it combines the ordinary and the extraordinary. It has elements of real - world India, like its history and politics. But then it adds magical elements. For example, the children born at midnight have special powers. This blend of the real and the magical is a key characteristic of magic realism.
Well, 'Midnights Children' is a magic realist novel in several ways. First, it presents a real - world scenario, that of post - colonial India with all its political unrest, social changes, and cultural diversity. Then, it injects magic into this world. The midnight children are born with unique powers, which is a very magical concept. These powers are used to drive the plot forward and also to reflect on different aspects of human existence. For instance, Saleem Sinai's power of being able to enter the minds of others gives insights into the thoughts and feelings of different characters, and through this, we see how the author explores themes like identity, fate, and the relationship between the individual and the nation. This seamless integration of the magical and the real makes it a great example of a magic realist novel.
The main feature is the co - existence of the real and the magical. The real - world setting of India is there, and then there are the magical midnight children. Another is the use of the supernatural to drive the story, like the special powers of the children.
In many magic and knight novels, magic can be a power that aids the knights. For example, it can heal their wounds in battle, like a magical potion or spell.
In 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell', magic is more of a natural force that has rules and laws, much like how science has principles. The magicians in the book study ancient texts and perform rituals to harness the power of magic. It's not as free - form as in some pure fantasy, but rather has a structured way of working, which gives it a science - fiction - like feel.
Another character is Shiva. He is Saleem's rival in many ways. Their fates are linked as they were both born at midnight. Shiva is more of a force of nature, being strong and more in tune with his physical power, while Saleem is more cerebral and introspective.
A magic realist novel usually features a complex narrative structure. It often includes elements of myth and legend within the story. The characters may experience events that defy the laws of nature but are still believable within the context of the novel. Take Salman Rushdie's works. His stories often incorporate elements of Indian mythology and magic while still being set in a somewhat recognizable world. The language used in magic realist novels is also important, as it helps to create the unique atmosphere that blurs the line between the real and the magical.
Magic can function in various ways. For example, in some books it's based on a system of incantations and potions. You say the right words or mix the right ingredients, and magic happens. In other magic fiction, it's more about the willpower and intention of the user. If they strongly desire something and have the magical gift, it can occur without the need for elaborate spells. Also, in some stories, magic is tied to specific elements like fire, water, or air, and characters can manipulate these elements to create magical effects.
It might function by having some sort of negative or inverse properties compared to normal matter. For example, if normal matter has mass and takes up space, Magic Anti - Material could have the ability to nullify that mass or space - taking property.
Black magic in these fanfictions can function in various ways. It might involve the use of dark artifacts that have been enchanted with evil powers. These artifacts can be used to spread chaos or give the wielder unnatural abilities. Also, black magic can be passed down through generations in certain families, and those who inherit it may struggle with the temptation to use it. Some fanfictions show that black magic has a corrupting influence on the user, gradually changing their personality and making them more cruel and power - hungry.
Well, in fanfiction, the Harry Potter technology magic can be really creative. Sometimes it's about using magic to power up Muggle - like technologies. For instance, a broomstick could be modified with a magical engine that makes it fly faster and more efficiently. This kind of technology magic can also be used in defensive spells. A wizard might create a shield spell that has a technological interface, so it can detect and block incoming spells more effectively.
I would also say Padma. Even though she may seem more ordinary compared to Saleem and Shiva, her role as the person who listens to Saleem's story is crucial. She adds a sense of normalcy and grounding to the rather fantastical story.