Fantasy Tropes that readers love
Unveiling Tropes That Resonate
In the luminous expanse of fantasy literature, tropes act as guiding stars, familiar constellations that lead readers on journeys beyond the ordinary. These narrative threads, woven with magic and mythical wonder, form the very essence of what makes fantasy a cherished haven for book lovers. Join us as we embark on an exploration of 20 enchanting fantasy tropes, each a key to the door of a different realm, and discover the bestselling books that have masterfully brought these elements to life.
J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling have a lot of these tropes covered!
1. The Hero's Journey:
What It Is: A classic trope where a hero embarks on an epic quest, faces challenges, and ultimately transforms. Bestseller Example: J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”
2. Magical Creatures:
What It Is: Beings with fantastical traits, from dragons to unicorns, adding a touch of whimsy. Bestseller Example: J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series
3. Chosen One:
What It Is: A protagonist destined to play a pivotal role in the story’s unfolding events. Bestseller Example: Christopher Paolini’s “Eragon”
4. Coming-of-Age:
What It Is: The protagonist matures and undergoes significant personal development. Bestseller Example: Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series
5. Dark Lords:
What It Is: A malevolent, powerful antagonist seeking domination or destruction. Bestseller Example: J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”
6. Prophecies:
What It Is: Foretold events that shape the course of the story. Bestseller Example: J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series
7. Forbidden Love:
What It Is: Romantic entanglements fraught with obstacles and societal taboos. Bestseller Example: Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight”
8. Magical Schools:
What It Is: Institutions where characters learn and master magical arts. Bestseller Example: Lev Grossman’s “The Magicians”
9. Quest for a MacGuffin:
What It Is: Characters pursue a powerful object that drives the plot. Bestseller Example: J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”
10. Time Travel:
What It Is: Characters navigate different time periods, altering past or future events. Bestseller Example: Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander”
11. Parallel Worlds:
What It Is: Existence of alternate dimensions or realities. Bestseller Example: C.S. Lewis’s “The Chronicles of Narnia”
12. Swashbuckling Pirates:
What It Is: Adventurous tales involving pirates and high-seas escapades. Bestseller Example: Scott Lynch’s “The Lies of Locke Lamora”
13. Eldritch Horrors:
What It Is: Entities beyond human comprehension, often malevolent. Bestseller Example: H.P. Lovecraft’s works, like “The Call of Cthulhu”
14. Magical Artefacts:
What It Is: Powerful items with mystical properties. Bestseller Example: J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series
15. Animal Companions:
What It Is: Characters have close bonds with magical or sentient animals. Bestseller Example: Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” series
16. Orphaned Protagonist:
What It Is: Main characters who lose their parents and embark on transformative journeys. Bestseller Example: J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series
17. Political Intrigue:
What It Is: Plots involving power struggles, alliances, and complex political landscapes. Bestseller Example: George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series
18. Elemental Magic:
What It Is: Characters control or embody the forces of nature. Bestseller Example: Brandon Sanderson’s “Mistborn” series
19. Sacrificial Hero:
What It Is: Protagonists willing to make personal sacrifices for the greater good. Bestseller Example: Suzanne Collins’s “The Hunger Games”
20. The Unlikely Hero:
What It Is: A protagonist who defies expectations and rises to greatness. Bestseller Example: Terry Pratchett’s “Discworld” series