A short introduction to reading and studying fantasy literature. This shortened version of a lecture seeks to introduce the listener to the concept of fantasy literature. It begin by looking at how one can define the genre of fantasy and what texts it might, or might not contain. We look at two standard approaches adopted by scholars - the chronological 'long history' of fantasy, and common tropes, structures, and motifs. The talk touches briefly on world-building and immersion, engaging with...

A short introduction to reading and studying fantasy literature. This shortened version of a lecture seeks to introduce the listener to the concept of fantasy literature. It begin by looking at how one can define the genre of fantasy and what texts it might, or might not contain. We look at two standard approaches adopted by scholars - the chronological 'long history' of fantasy, and common tropes, structures, and motifs. The talk touches briefly on world-building and immersion, engaging with...

A brief introduction to the writer, H. P. Lovecraft. A brief introduction to the American writer H. P. Lovecraft, the master of 'weird fiction'. The talk explores the definition of fantasy literature, why Lovecraft could be considered a writer of fantasy, his life and stories, and critiquing his works.