Radical Fantasy

In: Historical materialism: research in critical marxist theory, Band 10, Heft 4, S. 273-280

Abstract

The prospects for creating a materialist understanding of fantasy literature are contemplated; specific attention is dedicated to the differences between science fiction & fantasy literature's differing treatments of the good/evil binary & of technological devices. An analysis of contemporary scholarship's discussion of the generic differences between science fiction & fantasy is performed, illustrating that the former is frequently perceived as addressing the topics of history & historical development. After suggesting that not all science fiction is materialistic in nature, problems with traditional materialist assessments of fantasy are identified. Informed by Ludwig Feuerbach's understanding of religion as a form of projection, it is asserted that the magical within fantasy literature is indicative of humankind's creative capacity & freedom & that such literature essentially counterbalances science fiction's concern with history & historical change. The benefits of developing a materialist understanding of fantasy literature are also considered. 6 References. J. W. Parker