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Otherness in George R. R. Martin's Fantasy Novel A Game of ThronesAndraž Gradišnik, 2018, master's thesis
Abstract: The thesis explores otherness in A Game of Thrones, a fantasy novel written by George R. R. Martin. The research is possible because of the cultural and social diversity incorporated into the novel. Furthermore, the attention is paid not only to male but also female characters. Martin portrays otherness through exotic cultures, illegitimate children, untypical female and male characters, disability, etc. In A Game of Thrones, the story unfolds from the point of view of several characters. Since the majority of these characters are members of one (or more) out-groups, it is possible to analyze outsiders' position in a fantasy world governed by the norms set by the dominant society.
The thesis begins with the theory of fantasy, focusing on the origins of the term and its use in literature. The authors that contributed to the fantasy genre are mentioned and their actions discussed. A connection is established between fantasy and history, followed by a short summary of the events in the Middle Ages. The literary term 'otherness' is introduced. Several types of otherness are listed and explained – national, ethnic and cultural otherness; gender; and disability. A short summary of the events in the novel is added. In the second part of the thesis, the otherness within the novel is analyzed. The emphasis is on how the out-groups and their members react to the norms set by the dominant society.
Keywords: fantasy, fantasy novel, otherness, history, A Game of Thrones, George R. R. Martin
Published in DKUM: 25.09.2018; Views: 2052; Downloads: 279
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