High fantasy fiction is a sub - genre of fantasy literature. It typically involves a completely fictional and often elaborate secondary world. This world has its own unique rules, magic systems, species, and cultures that are distinct from our real - world. Examples include J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle - earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' series.
High fantasy fiction is known for its grandiosity. It's not just about a little bit of magic here and there. It's about entire worlds being built on the premise of magic and the supernatural. The characters are often larger - than - life figures who are on a journey of self - discovery or a mission to save their world. Consider Ursula K. Le Guin's 'Earthsea' series. It has a world full of magic, mages, and dark forces, and the story follows the growth and adventures of the main character in this richly detailed high - fantasy world.
High fantasy fiction is all about building rich, imagined worlds. It involves elements like powerful sorcery, legendary creatures, and characters with destinies that shape the fate of entire realms. Books like 'A Song of Ice and Fire' fall into this category.
High fantasy fiction often features a completely fictional and elaborate world. It usually has magic as a central element. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', there are powerful wizards, magical rings, and different races like elves and dwarves. Another characteristic is the presence of a grand quest or adventure. The heroes in high fantasy are typically on a journey to save their world from great evil.
Some excellent high fantasy novels include 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. The story is told from the perspective of Kvothe, a talented young man with a mysterious past. 'The Malazan Book of the Fallen' by Steven Erikson is also a remarkable work. It has a complex and gritty world with a large cast of characters. And 'The Earthsea Cycle' by Ursula K. Le Guin, which explores themes of magic, power, and identity in a beautifully crafted world of islands.
Start with the classics. As I mentioned before, 'The Lord of the Rings' is a great starting point. It's widely available and has influenced so many other works in the genre. You can also try 'The Chronicles of Narnia' which has a more accessible and magical feel for beginners. Another way is to look for books with interesting covers or blurbs at your local bookstore. Sometimes a cool - looking cover can draw you in.
One of the most popular high fantasy books is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a classic that has shaped the genre with its rich world - building, complex characters, and epic battles between good and evil. Another great one is 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin. It's known for its gritty realism, political intrigue, and a large cast of characters. 'The Wheel of Time' by Robert Jordan is also a well - loved high fantasy series. It has a vast world with a complex magic system and many storylines that keep readers engaged.
One of the main elements is the blend of different genres. It takes the otherworldly feel of high fantasy, such as mythical creatures and ancient prophecies, and mixes it with the futuristic ideas of science fiction like time travel and alien civilizations. Also, the exploration of moral and ethical questions is common. Characters often face dilemmas where the rules of magic and science collide, making for some really thought - provoking stories.
High fantasy books often have a completely fictional world. For example, in 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson, the world has a unique magic system based on the ingestion of metals. They also usually feature a hero's journey, like in 'The Wheel of Time' where Rand al'Thor goes through many trials to fulfill his destiny.
High - fantasy often features grand magical tournaments. These include spell - casting duels where mages display their most powerful incantations. Also, there are jousting competitions on flying steeds. Another main type is the battle for magical artifacts, where different factions compete to obtain a powerful and ancient item.