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The Evolution of Fantasy World-Building: From Tolkien to George R.R. Martin

The art of fantasy world-building has evolved significantly over the years, from the early works of J.R.R. Tolkien to the more recent works of George R.R. Martin. The evolution of fantasy world-building can be seen in the increasing complexity and detail of the worlds created, as well as the ways in which authors have incorporated real-world history and culture into their fantasy worlds.

Tolkien's Middle-earth, first introduced in "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" is often considered the foundation of modern fantasy world-building. Tolkien's work was groundbreaking in its attention to detail, with a rich history and mythology that was integral to the story. He created a fully-realized world with its own unique cultures, languages, and geography, and his work set a new standard for fantasy world-building.

Since Tolkien, fantasy authors have continued to push the boundaries of world-building, incorporating more and more detail into their worlds. George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, for example, takes place in a world that is heavily influenced by real-world medieval Europe, with a complex system of politics and power struggles. Martin's world also features a wide variety of cultures and religions, each with their own unique customs and beliefs.

Another example is the Malazan book of the fallen series written by Steven Erikson. In this series, Erikson creates a complex world with a rich history, multiple cultures, and a wide variety of magic systems, all of which are integral to the story.

More recent fantasy works such as N.K Jemisin's The Broken Earth and Nnedi Okorafor's Binti series also have world-building that is heavily influenced by real-world cultures and societies, and incorporate elements of Afrofuturism to create unique and believable fantasy worlds.

In conclusion, fantasy world-building has come a long way since the days of J.R.R. Tolkien, with authors now creating worlds that are more complex, detailed and diverse than ever before. From Tolkien to George R.R. Martin, fantasy authors have continued to push the boundaries of world-building, incorporating more and more detail into their worlds and drawing inspiration from real-world history and culture to create rich and believable fantasy universes.


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