The Shape of Fantasy is an in-depth look at Heroic Epic Fantasy. It depicts structural and narrative patterns with models stemming from science and philosophy.
C. Palmer-Patel is head editor of Fantastika Journal. Recent publications include Sideways in Time, co-edited with Glyn Morgan, and Imperialism as 'Evil' in Epic Fantasy: An Analysis of the Fantasy Works of Eddings, Jordan, Sanderson, and Brett, co-authored with Matthew J. Elder.
Introduction. Chapter 1: The Shape of a Hero's Soul. Chapter 2: Forks in the Road. Chapter 3: Building Layers of Character. Chapter 4: The Ou-Hero. Chapter 5: The Messianic Hero. Interlude: Intertwining the Magic and Landscape. Chapter 6: Breaking Into Fantasyland. Chapter 7: The Hero as a Portal. Chapter 8: Perfect Epic Empires. Chapter 9. Chaotic Cycles.