A Better Country: The Worlds of Religious Fantasy and Science Fiction (Contributions to the Study of Science Fiction and Fantasy)

by Martha C. Sammons

Overview

This book is a study of religious science fiction and fantasy in the tradition of Lewis and Tolkien. Sammons explores why writers use fantasy to convey theology. In addition, the book provides a theoretical understanding of fantasy as a form of literature by examining the techniques of current writers in light of the goals and theories of the "founders" of the genre. Sammons discusses techniques such as supposition, transposition, imagery, and reader participation, along with the themes and ideas they convey. The author traces the chronological development of the genre and the characteristics and effects of religious fantasy with a wealth of examples.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780313257469
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	02/24/1988
Series:	Contributions to the Study of Science Fiction and Fantasy , #32
Pages:	182
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.44(d)

About the Author

Martha C. Sammons, PhD, is professor of English at Wright State University, Dayton, OH, where she has taught since 1975.

Table of Contents

Introduction

"The Perilous Realm": Elements and Themes of Secondary World Fantasy

The "Fairyland of the Soul": Heroes and Their Spiritual Journeys

"Walking the Tightrope": Qualities of Good Fantasy

"Past Watchful Dragons": Supposition and Re-mythologizing

"The Tree of Tales": Other Forms of Fantasy

"A Far-Off Gleam": The Effects of Fantasy

Bibliography

Index