Black Voices in Fantasy: Why they matter
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Mauriah "Red" Turner (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
- Advisor
- Risa Applegarth
Abstract: This thesis examines the role of fantasy literature in articulating themes of ancestry, heritage, and racial identity, focusing on four contemporary novels: *Children of Blood and Bone* by Tomi Adeyemi, *The Blood Trials* by N.E. Davenport, *The Gilded Ones* by Namina Forna, and *Legendborn* by Tracy Deonn. These novels not only engage with fantastical elements but also deeply intertwine these elements with the African American experience, offering a powerful commentary on systemic issues of race and identity. By analyzing how each novel uses fantasy to explore and express aspects of heritage and the power of knowledge, this study demonstrates that fantasy serves as more than mere escapism; it acts as a vital platform for cultural critique and social commentary. This thesis argues that the inclusion of African American perspectives in fantasy literature serves to challenge the historically Eurocentric biases of the genre and highlights the genre's potential to address and reflect on contemporary social injustices. Through a detailed thematic analysis of each novel, the work reveals how modern black authors utilize fantasy to discuss, dissect, and reclaim narratives of racial oppression and identity, thus reshaping the genre into a tool for racial empowerment and social change.
Black Voices in Fantasy: Why they matter
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Created on 4/30/2024
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Honors Project
- Language: English
- Date: 2024
- Keywords
- black, fantasy, African American, african-american, racism, indemnity, inclusion, diversity, children of blood and bone, COBAB, the blood trials, THB, TGO, The gilded ones, Tomi Adeyemi, NE Davenport , Forna, Tracy Dean, Legendborn