Date

1-13-2023

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

Chair

Timothy Christian

Keywords

Christian, Christianity, Fantasy, Fiction, Magic, Redemption, God, Secular, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Witchcraft, Wizards, Christian Worldview, Writing, Reading, Jesus Christ, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter

Disciplines

Creative Writing

Abstract

My thesis proffers the prevalence of Christian worldview elements in fantasy fiction. The research findings presented expand on the different Christian elements within fantasy literature by interpreting the writing and influence of Christian authors, such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, and secular authors, such as Jennifer A. Neilson and J.K. Rowling. I argue that within fantasy there are Christian elements that are either overtly or covertly incorporated. I present my findings based on these readings in different sections: fantasy’s purpose to provide entertainment, the inclusion of God to dictate the destiny and laws of the fantasy worldview, the inclusion of a savior, the use of magic akin to Christian miracles, the importance of redemption and the use of forgiveness and character growth, and the ultimate struggle between good and evil. Christian authors can incorporate fantasy elements, such as magic, in their writings, for with the pervasive Christian worldview, the Biblical message is conveyed. The insertion of the Christian worldview in fantasy fiction presents Biblical themes in novel settings which can ultimately lead readers to the discovery of Christ.

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