Mythological fiction is a genre of literature that blends mythological themes and figures with the contemporary world, often resulting in a unique blend of the familiar and the extraordinary. This genre provides a rich playground for authors to explore timeless themes, human nature, and the mysteries of the universe through the lens of mythology.
The genre is not limited to any one culture or mythology, and includes works based on a wide range of mythological traditions, from Greek and Roman to Norse, Egyptian, Indian, and beyond. It can encompass a wide variety of sub-genres, including fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and more.
Origins of Mythological Fiction
The origins of mythological fiction can be traced back to ancient times, when myths were an integral part of everyday life. These stories were used to explain natural phenomena, teach moral lessons, and entertain. They were often passed down orally from generation to generation, and over time, they evolved and were adapted into various forms of literature.
As societies became more literate, these oral traditions began to be written down, and the genre of mythological fiction began to take shape. The ancient Greeks, for example, were among the first to write down their myths in the form of epic poems and plays, many of which are still read and studied today.
Modern Mythological Fiction
In the modern era, mythological fiction has continued to evolve and expand. The genre has been influenced by various literary movements and trends, and has been adapted to various media, including film, television, and video games.
Modern mythological fiction often incorporates elements of other genres, such as fantasy, science fiction, and historical fiction. This has resulted in a diverse range of works that explore a wide variety of themes and topics, from the nature of heroism and the struggle between good and evil, to the complexities of identity and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
Characteristics of Mythological Fiction
Mythological fiction is characterized by a number of key features. These include the use of mythological figures and themes, the blending of the mythological and the contemporary, and the exploration of universal themes and human nature.
Mythological figures and themes are a central feature of this genre. These can include gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters, and various mythological creatures and beings. These figures often play key roles in the story, and their actions and interactions drive the plot.
Blending of the Mythological and the Contemporary
Another key characteristic of mythological fiction is the blending of the mythological and the contemporary. This can take many forms, from setting the story in a contemporary world where mythological figures exist alongside ordinary humans, to reimagining mythological figures and themes in a modern context.
This blending of the mythological and the contemporary often results in a unique blend of the familiar and the extraordinary, which can make the genre both accessible and intriguing to readers.
Exploration of Universal Themes and Human Nature
Mythological fiction often explores universal themes and aspects of human nature. This can include themes such as the struggle between good and evil, the nature of heroism, the search for identity, and the quest for meaning and purpose.
Through the lens of mythology, authors can explore these themes in unique and imaginative ways, often providing fresh perspectives and insights.
Sub-genres of Mythological Fiction
Mythological fiction encompasses a wide range of sub-genres, each with its own unique characteristics and conventions. These can include fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and more.
Each sub-genre brings its own unique twist to the genre, and can offer a different perspective on the themes and figures of mythology.
Fantasy
Fantasy is a sub-genre of mythological fiction that often features a magical or supernatural world, and includes elements such as magical creatures, spells, and quests. This sub-genre often draws heavily on mythology, and can include a wide range of mythological figures and themes.
Fantasy can range from high fantasy, which often features a completely separate world with its own rules and mythology, to low fantasy, which is set in a world similar to our own but with magical elements.
Science Fiction
Science fiction is another sub-genre of mythological fiction that often explores the implications of scientific and technological advances on society and individuals. This sub-genre often incorporates elements of mythology in unique and imaginative ways, such as reimagining mythological figures as aliens or artificial intelligences.
Science fiction can range from hard science fiction, which is based on real scientific principles and theories, to soft science fiction, which is more focused on character and narrative.
Notable Works and Authors
There are many notable works and authors in the genre of mythological fiction. These include both classic works that have helped shape the genre, and contemporary works that are pushing the boundaries of what the genre can be.
Some notable authors in the genre include J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Neil Gaiman, and Rick Riordan, among others. These authors have each brought their own unique voice and vision to the genre, and their works have had a significant impact on the development of mythological fiction.
J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R. Tolkien is often considered the father of modern fantasy, and his works have had a significant influence on the genre of mythological fiction. His most famous works, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, draw heavily on Norse and Celtic mythology, and have been hugely influential in shaping the genre.
Tolkien’s works are characterized by their rich world-building, complex characters, and epic narratives. They explore themes such as the struggle between good and evil, the nature of heroism, and the power of friendship and loyalty.
Neil Gaiman
Neil Gaiman is a contemporary author known for his unique blend of mythological fiction and fantasy. His works often incorporate elements of various mythologies, from Norse to Egyptian to American folklore, and are known for their imaginative storytelling, complex characters, and exploration of universal themes.
Gaiman’s works include American Gods, which explores the idea of gods and mythological figures living in modern America, and Norse Mythology, a retelling of Norse myths in his own unique style.
Conclusion
Mythological fiction is a rich and diverse genre that offers a unique blend of the familiar and the extraordinary. Through the lens of mythology, authors can explore timeless themes, human nature, and the mysteries of the universe in unique and imaginative ways.
Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, or simply enjoy a good story, there’s something in the genre of mythological fiction for everyone.
Kathryn Taylor was born and raised in the Midwest and has been a book lover and writer since childhood. As a queer teenager, she found solace in writing, and has written professionally ever since graduating from college. She loves a variety of fiction book genres, including romance books, thrillers, YA, sci-fi, and adventure. She's also a fan of the Oxford comma.
Kathryn has received numerous awards for her writing and now writes exclusively for RT Book Reviews. She is a passionate activist in the LGBTQ+ community, speaking at conferences and leading queer writing workshops. When not reading and writing, Kathryn enjoys visiting local libraries and bookstores across the country, exploring new cities, and spending time with her family.
