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Phantastes: A Faerie Romance for Men and Women

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1858

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Book Brief

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George MacDonald

Phantastes

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1858
Book Details
Pages

154

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Fantasy Realm • Victorian Era

Publication Year

1858

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Phantastes by George MacDonald, Anodos, a young man on the cusp of adulthood, journeys into a mystical fairy land where he encounters various inhabitants, learns moral and spiritual lessons, faces numerous challenges, and strives for beauty and goodness, ultimately achieving a union with the divine. Expect themes of death, violence, and supernatural entities.

Fantastical

Mysterious

Contemplative

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

11,738 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

George MacDonald's Phantastes has been praised for its imaginative richness and deep influence on later fantasy literature. Readers appreciate its dreamlike narrative and profound themes. However, some find the plot meandering and difficult to follow. The poetic prose style receives mixed reviews, seen as either an enchanting strength or a challenging read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Phantastes?

Fans of Phantastes by George MacDonald will likely be readers who enjoy classic fantasy literature rich in allegory and imagination. This novel appeals to those who appreciate works like J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, as well as the poetic vision of William Morris's The Wood Beyond the World.

4.1

11,738 ratings

67%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Anodos

A young man embarking on a journey of enlightenment, he navigates various challenges and temptations in a mystical realm after turning 21. His adventures begin when he leaves home and enters Fairy Land, where he encounters magical beings and situations that test his maturity.

An enigmatic figure who guides and offers protection to Anodos, often likened to Sir Percival from Arthurian legend. He rides a red horse and wears rusty armor, symbolizing purity and the quest for enlightenment.

An antagonistic presence in Anodos's journey, representing a dark force within Fairy Land. It first appears as a shadowy hand, threatening Anodos due to his lack of protection by other trees.

An ethereal representation of beauty and enlightenment, whom Anodos initially seeks without understanding. She remains elusive and unattainable, symbolizing the divine or ultimate truth.

A mystical creature resembling the huldra from Scandinavian folklore, associated with false beauty and deception. She poses a threat to Anodos by seducing him away from his true path.

The protagonist of a dream-like story Anodos reads, who seeks love and enlightenment. He deals with themes of pride and isolation and ultimately finds enlightenment through sacrifice.

A young woman in Fairy Land who represents a person from Anodos's past. She carries a fragile globe and teaches Anodos about trust and the pain of broken relationships.

Characters in Fairy Land who resemble Anodos's real-life brothers, both with a mission to confront giants. They allow Anodos to explore his unresolved feelings toward his deceased siblings.

Book Details
Pages

154

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Fantasy Realm • Victorian Era

Publication Year

1858

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

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