Abstract
Fantasy literature has traditionally been perceived as a genre of escapism, offering readers imaginary worlds detached from everyday reality. However, in the 21st century, fantasy has increasingly evolved into a reflective literary form that engages with real-world social, political, and moral issues. This paper explores how modern fantasy narratives use magical settings, symbolic characters, and imagined conflicts to mirror contemporary problems such as power struggles, social inequality, exclusion, and ethical responsibility. By relocating these issues into fictional worlds, fantasy creates a critical distance that allows readers to examine complex realities more openly and thoughtfully. The study argues that modern fantasy no longer functions solely as entertainment, but as a cultural and literary medium capable of social commentary and philosophical reflection. The growing focus on realism, moral ambiguity, and adult-oriented themes demonstrates that fantasy has become a meaningful tool for interpreting modern human experience. Through thematic analysis, this paper highlights the relevance of fantasy literature in addressing real-world concerns while preserving its imaginative essence.
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