Stephen R. Donaldson and the Modern Epic Vision

Download or read book Stephen R. Donaldson and the Modern Epic Vision written by Christine Barkley and published by McFarland. This book was released on 2014-01-10 with total page 225 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This critical study analyzes Stephen R. Donaldson's role as a modern writer who uses the fantasy genre to discuss situations and predicaments germane to the modern world. Donaldson reclaims an epic vision in his Thomas Covenant novels that is lacking in most modern literature. Chapters demonstrate how this use of epic heroism helps solve seemingly insurmountable problems and provides more meaning and purpose for individuals. As Donaldson's characters learn to transcend their world, the reader is engaged in a serious, enlightened discussion about the need for imagination, responsibility and acceptance to resolve such problems as alienation, pollution, disease and despair.