10117 11:15a-12:05p MWF WH 114 Hartman

In many ways, the backbone of fantasy literature is its hero – a reflection of the medieval hero who embodies chivalry, bravery, and nobility. But this hero is anything but static. In this course we will trace the evolution of the fantasy hero, from Conan and other heroes in the pulp fiction of the thirties and forties, through their representations in modern literature by authors such as George R. R. Martin and Robin Hobb, and in feature films. We will examine how these heroes have grown to encompass fantasy’s changing audience, and how they remain the embodiment of the heroic characteristics that make them fun to admire.