Supernatural elements

Definition

Supernatural elements are components of literature that involve phenomena beyond the natural world, often including magic, deities, ghosts, and otherworldly beings. These elements enhance the narrative by introducing conflict, creating mystery, and exploring themes related to fate, morality, and the unknown.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Supernatural elements are pivotal in medieval romance, where quests often involve enchanted beings or magical artifacts that challenge the heroes.
2. In epics, supernatural elements frequently highlight the protagonist's divine favor or intervention from gods, impacting their journey and fate.
3. The presence of supernatural elements can serve as a catalyst for character development and moral lessons within the narrative.
4. Common supernatural elements include fairies, dragons, and prophecies, which can symbolize internal struggles or societal values.
5. These elements often blur the lines between reality and fiction, prompting readers to question the nature of existence and belief.

Review Questions

• How do supernatural elements function in medieval romance to enhance the narrative structure?
  • In medieval romance, supernatural elements serve multiple purposes that enhance the overall narrative structure. They introduce magical challenges that protagonists must overcome, creating tension and excitement. These elements also allow for the exploration of deeper themes such as love, honor, and fate, pushing characters into extraordinary situations that reveal their true nature and motivations.
• Discuss how supernatural elements in epics contribute to the development of heroic ideals within the genre.
  • Supernatural elements in epics often play a crucial role in shaping heroic ideals by showcasing divine intervention and support for the protagonist. These elements highlight the hero's relationship with the gods or fate, illustrating their strength and moral fortitude. As heroes face challenges posed by supernatural beings or phenomena, their triumphs serve to reinforce cultural values such as bravery, honor, and perseverance.
• Evaluate the significance of supernatural elements in both medieval romance and epic genres in reflecting cultural beliefs about the unknown.
  • Supernatural elements in both medieval romance and epic genres are significant as they reflect cultural beliefs about the unknown and humanity's relationship with higher powers. They allow authors to explore existential questions and moral dilemmas faced by characters while providing a canvas for societal values and fears. By engaging with these elements, readers are invited to ponder themes such as destiny versus free will, the nature of good and evil, and the impact of divine influence on human lives.

Related terms

Magic: The use of supernatural forces or powers to influence events, characters, or outcomes in a narrative.

Mythology: A collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition, that often includes supernatural beings and explanations for natural phenomena.

Fantasy: A genre of literature that incorporates magical elements and imaginative settings that are not bound by the laws of the natural world.