Fantasy Friday Chat: A Bestiary Iceberg
Fantasy stories are rich with unique creatures, each contributing to unique world-building and the thematic depth of their respective stories.
The iconic dragon, portrayed as fire-breathing beasts hoarding treasure in the West, while in Eastern cultures, they are seen as wise, benevolent beings associated with water and agriculture. Griffins, with the body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, symbolize strength and wisdom, often serving as guardians in mythology.
Unicorns are often visualized as magical horses with a single horn. They are symbols of purity and grace, often featured in tales where they can only be tamed by a virgin or are sought after for their healing powers.
Mermaids. These half-human, half-fish creatures have been part of mythology across cultures. They often symbolize the allure and danger of the sea. Not far from mind too, are the Selkies and Kelpies of Scottish and Irish folklore.
In modern interpretations of Japanese mythology, kitsune are foxes with magical abilities, often able to shape-shift into human forms. They symbolize intelligence, cunning, and loyalty.
But all of these creatures represent only a small portion of the wild side of Fantasy stories, legends, and myths.
In your opinion, what was the most unique creature you’ve read about in a Fantasy tale?
I still can't get past the Ents - or more particularly the Entwives who we never meet.
I do love dragons though. And kitsune.
I guess I still like the Ents.