Fantasy: Characteristics

Science fiction and fantasy are often lumped together as a single genre, and to a certain extent, this makes sense as they they both deal with things beyond our current realm of experience. However, in practicality, the science-fiction genre and the fantasy genre are on opposite ends of the spectrum.

So whereas science fiction is the genre of ethics and morality, being focused on technology and the physical realm, fantasy is the genre of religion, focusing on all things supernatural and otherworldly. Therefore, the fantasy genre frequently includes the characteristics of 

• an alternate world setting.
• non-human characters, like angels, fairies, elves, and fauns.
• a plot about an epic battle of good vs. evil.
• a specially gifted or prophesied protagonist, who leads the good side.