by Michael Grantham

Created on: May 03, 2008   Last Updated: May 07, 2008

Ever since the release of The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien in 1954, the world seems to have become captivated by highly imaginative works of fiction, namely in the genres of science fiction and fantasy.

Although the flux of popularity enjoyed by these genres is not culturally restricted, the shift toward fiction, in-apposed to non-fiction, is specifically evident in western literature, which has been contributed too by a number of renowned authors, whose works are still being widely read today. Some of the most influential names in these genres include; David Eddings, Richard Pratchett, Barbara Hambly and Teresa Edgerton, just to name a few.

The realms of fantasy and science fiction have played a large part in the development of contemporary artistic and imaginative culture and society. However, in more recent times, it is often argued that many newer stories, by modern authors, lack the same passionate originality as there predecessors.

Indeed, it would seem that many current authors such as; J.K. Rowling, Robert Jordon and Robin Hobb, share many common similarities, in both style and ideology. Nevertheless, the works of myth and magic which have captivated countless individuals over the years, still maintains a strong following, in-despite slightly diminishing popularity.

Therefore, this essay aims to examine some of the history behind fiction writing and the criticisms' surrounding its transition into the modern day, the difficulties of gaining publication and also to pose the question; what makes an effective fiction story'.

It is often understood that the ideological underpinnings influencing the construction of science fiction and fantasy based stories, have always been present within human civilization and throughout history. Essentially, one of the oldest and most well known of such historical works is the Greek poem The Odyssey' which is thought to have been written around six hundred BC (Butler, 2000). Furthermore, the Babylonian tale of The Epic of Gilgamesh' is yet another example of such works and is also said to be one of the oldest works of literature known to man (Hooker, 1996). Holding their significance both historically, as well as culturally; such works' are argued to exist as the foundation upon which genres such as science fiction and fantasy would be constructed in later years.

Although it is difficult to identify the first works written specifically to suite fantastical fiction, the stereotypical essence, themes and styles of such

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